2024 was a milestone year for the Altona/Rhineland Emergency Services (ARES), with its members responding to an extraordinary 86 calls for service. Chief Greg Zimmerman detailed the year’s accomplishments and challenges, highlighting the department’s commitment to safety and community engagement.
Over the past 12 months, ARES reported a total of 844 hours spent on calls within the Town of Altona. Meanwhile, the Municipality of Rhineland saw 1,235 total man-hours spread across 22 incidents. The department also handled two mutual aid calls and three landfill fires, with associated costs split between the Town and Rhineland.
The calls spanned a variety of emergencies, including 16 motor vehicle incidents, six structure fires, one grass fire, and 23 fire alarms.
Among the fire alarms, 10 were caused by cooking incidents, one by a furnace motor, five by mechanical malfunctions, four of unknown origin, two by sprinkler activations, and one by smoke from soldering.
Additionally, there were eight false alarms stemming from companies, pull stations, and system malfunctions.
ARES also responded to eight EMS and rescue events, such as assisting a person stuck in a bathtub, as well as incidents involving a leaking propane tank and several powerline and CO-related calls.
“Each fire was unique,” Zimmerman said. “People need to be more aware of fire hazards in their homes. They also need to make sure they have a family escape plan in place, their smoke alarms are working, and that they have a fire extinguisher handy.
Despite the demanding schedule, ARES members prioritized training and skill development. In 2024, the team held 35 regular Monday night sessions, totaling 1,688 hours. Additional weekend sessions focused on specialized skills, including thermal imaging, pump operations, and the Incident Command System Level 100. Minor upgrades were made to the training ground, ensuring it remains in excellent condition.
“Our training ground is in good shape, and we continue to refine our skills to handle diverse emergencies,” Zimmerman noted.
Equipment readiness also remained a priority. Most firefighting tools are in top condition, though a few older items are starting to show wear. A significant upgrade came with the 2024 order of a new quick response pumper to replace 442, expected to arrive this year.
“This will enhance our response capabilities with faster deployment and greater pump capacity,” Zimmerman said.
ARES strengthened its connection with the community in 2024, hosting numerous hall tours and taking part in many community celebrations.
“Engaging with the community is a vital part of what we do,” Zimmerman stressed. “These interactions foster awareness and trust, which are essential in emergency services.”
Last year brought leadership transitions and membership shifts within ARES. After 33 years of service, Deputy Chief Barry Friesen stepped down to become the assistant municipal emergency coordinator for Altona and Rhineland. Mark Krahn, a 15-year veteran, succeeded him as deputy chief.
Membership numbers fluctuated slightly, with the team averaging 30 members for most of the year. However, departures due to education, career changes, and other factors brought the total down to 26 by year-end.
“We’re actively recruiting again and just welcomed a new member this week,” Zimmerman said.
He expressed optimism about the team’s dynamics, saying, “Thirty members is a good number. I’m allowed up to 35, which would enable us to run a cadet program in schools.
“New members bring fresh energy, inspiring the veterans to push themselves harder,” he joked.
ARES’ dedication to excellence was reaffirmed in 2024 when the Fire Underwriters Survey reassessed the department. The Dwelling Protection Grade remained at 3A, the highest achievable without full-time staff, and the Public Protection Classification held steady at six.
“We’re one of only five departments in the province with this classification,” Zimmerman said proudly, noting that only Brandon and Winnipeg have higher ratings.
As ARES looks ahead to 2025, Zimmerman remains confident in the department’s ability to adapt and excel.
“We’re always striving to improve our services and ensure the safety of our community.”
