Established in 1929, the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA) is an organization comprised of 55 locals who represent over 4500 professional men and women fire fighters in BC, including the Yukon. The BCPFFA has representation from eight regions. The BCPFFA and its 53 are affiliates of the International Association of Fire Fighters.
The BCPFFA is a service provider for its affiliates offering training and education in areas of provincial legislation, occupational health and safety, Worksafe advocacy, financial assistance, bargaining, labour law, and advocacy for best practices in both public safety and fire fighter safety.
In accordance to Constitution and Bylaw Article 2, Objects: The objects of the Provincial Associations shall be to encourage the organizing of all paid fire fighters in British Columbia, to promote and encourage Occupational Health and Safety awareness to all fire fighters within the Province, to encourage a higher plane of skill and efficiency, sick and death benefit funds, a pension system, the cultivation of fellowship among its members, and to seek such legislation as may improve the position of the fire fighter.
"On behalf of the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC for their incredible partnership in making the BC Fire Leadership Summit a resounding success.
A special thank you to FCABC President Dan Derby, BCPFFA Executive Vice President Steve Farina and Victoria’s Deputy Fire Chief Steve Serbic for their leadership and collaboration with our own Secretary-Treasurer, Brian Catinus, to ensure every detail was expertly managed.
To the BC Fire Leadership Summit Committee and the BCPFFA Executive Board – your dedication and hard work are what made this event possible. Together, we’ve set the stage for meaningful conversations and progress in our fire services."
– Todd Schierling, BCPFFA President
Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gX6s3Snc
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the BC Fire Leadership Summit and Western Educational.
We were proud to welcome over 400 fire chiefs and union leaders in the fire service, coming together to address critical issues and participate in valuable education and training.
The insights shared and connections made will have a lasting impact as these leaders bring their knowledge back to their Locals, strengthening Locals across the province and beyond Western Canada.
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)Burnaby Firefighters
🚨 It's Crash Responder Safety Week 🚨
When you see flashing lights on the road, slow down and move over—it’s not just courtesy, it’s the law. 🚒 🚓 🚑 Every year, first responders risk their lives to keep you safe on highways and roads. Let's keep them safe too.
⚠️ Remember:
✅ Slow down when approaching a crash scene.
✅ Move over to give responders space to work safely.
✅ Stay alert and avoid distractions.
Photo by: 1st Due Media
Day 2 of the BC Fire Leadership Summit
In partnership with the Fire Chiefs’ Association of BC, the Health & Safety Symposium was dedicated to vital conversations on health, safety, and well-being in the fire service. Here are the highlights:
🎤 Keynote by Arjuna George
With over 24 years of experience, including a decade as a Fire Chief, Arjuna George brought his expertise in burnout prevention and resilience coaching to inspire fire service leaders on their journey to resilience.
💬 Panel: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in the Workplace
A powerful discussion on addressing mental health challenges, featuring:
Victoria Fire Deputy Chief Steve Serbic
President Chad Porter, Local 905
Lisa Smith, Senior Manager, WorkSafe BC
BCPFF Executive Vice President Lower Mainland North Steve Farina, Local 1782
🎤 Safety Session: The ROI of Better Mental Health and Wellbeing
Dr. Mahesh Nagarajan, UBC Sauder School of Business, emphasized the critical need for mental health investments with actionable insights for Western Canada’s professional firefighters.
💬 Panel: Work-Life Balance of a Fire Service Leader
Leaders shared strategies for maintaining balance:
Fire Chief Mike Danks, North Vancouver District
Dr. Duncan Shields
Arjuna George
BCPFF Executive Vice President Lower Mainland North Steve Farina, Local 1782
🎤 Special Message
Former MLA Surrey-Cloverdale and BCPFFA Honourary Member Mike Starchuk delivered an inspiring message to the attendees.
💬 Panel: Mental Health and Wellness - Best Practices
Exploring practical approaches to support mental health:
Fire Chief Bob Norton, Fort St. John
BCPFFA Northern Vice President Matt Crompton, Local 2143
Matt Johnston, First Responder Health
Jessica Bowie, Chief Human Resources Officer, City of Fort St. John
BCPFF Executive Vice President Lower Mainland North Steve Farina, Local 1782
🎤 Safety Session: Cancer in the Fire Service
Neil McMillan, IAFF Director of Science and Research, delved into the latest findings on cancer risks and prevention for firefighters.
A heartfelt thank you to all our speakers and panelists for driving critical conversations and advocating for the health and safety of our fire service community. Together, we’re building a stronger, safer future.
See photo gallery here: https://lnkd.in/g2VSXWt5
Day 1 of the BC Fire Leadership Summit
In partnership with the Fire Chiefs Association of BC, was a powerhouse of insights, collaboration, and inspiration. Here's a look at the highlights:
🎤 Keynote by Erin Jones
Award-winning educator, author, and advocate, Erin Jones delivered an impactful talk on equity, diversity, and community empowerment. With over 25 years in educational leadership, Erin inspired us with her dedication to creating inclusive spaces and driving meaningful change.
💬 Panel: Shifting Culture in the Fire Service
A thought-provoking discussion about the future of the fire service featuring:
President Katrina Davison, Local 18
Fire Chief Mike Kaye, Saanich
Deputy Chief Shelley Morris, Surrey
Executive Registrar Joel Woznikoski, Local 1763
🎤 Keynote by Trevor Sones
Conflict resolution expert Trevor Sones shared his expertise on building healthy labour relationships. With over 15 years of experience, his strategies for fostering trust and collaboration were invaluable.
💬 Panel: Allies and Advocacy
Exploring how to address challenges and build trust, this session brought together:
President Shane Petrie, Local 2864
Fire Chief Erick Peterson, Abbotsford
President Jordan Sparrow, Local 4550
Fire Chief Jason deRoy, Township of Langley
A huge thank you to our speakers and panelists for sharing their expertise and driving important conversations. Let’s keep the momentum going as we continue to shape the future of the fire service!
See photo gallery here: https://lnkd.in/g2VSXWt5
We were deeply honoured to have Erin Jones as our keynote speaker at this year’s BC Fire Leadership Summit, where she shared powerful insights on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Erin challenged leaders in the fire service to create safe spaces that empower everyone to show up, be brave, and be heard. Her message? Change starts here, with us—building a culture in our fire halls that reflects understanding, inclusivity, and hope for future generations.
Through her stories and life experiences, Erin illuminated what it means to rise above adversity and to lead with resilience. Her words are a powerful reminder of our responsibility to show young, aspiring fire fighters that they belong in this community.
"Thank you, Erin, for your wisdom, authenticity, and the hope you've instilled in us. You've given us the courage to make a lasting difference in our communities." – Todd Schierling, President, BC Professional Fire Fighters Association
Fire Chiefs Association of BC .International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
Today, BC Professional Fire Fighters honour the courage and sacrifice of Canada’s veterans who stood for our freedom. We remember their service, and we pledge to keep their legacy alive. Lest we forget. #RemembranceDay#LestWeForget
The BCPFFA is in Victoria this week, hosting two impactful conferences aimed at empowering fire service leaders to build safer, stronger communities in collaboration with the Fire Chiefs Association of B.C.
BC Fire Leadership Summit – November 4 & 5, 2024
A key opportunity for fire service leaders to understand shared challenges, focusing on successful labour relations. Attendees will learn strategies to foster cooperative, collaborative relationships between associations and local labour management teams.
BCPFFA/IAFF Western Educational, Health & Safety Symposium & Union/Labour Workshops – November 5-7, 2024
Designed for Union Officers and Occupational Health & Safety advocates, this symposium delivers essential content to prepare both new and seasoned leaders in labour representation and safety. With a variety of networking and collaboration opportunities, we’re ready to bring the Western Educational to Victoria once again.
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
B.C. firefighters are ready to make significant progress in cancer commitment after the NDP form government. Congratulations to David Eby and the NDP on being re-elected.
"BC’s fire fighters are eager to collaborate with the provincial government to adopt the country's most progressive health protections.” - BCPFFA President Todd Schierling
Visit media release: https://lnkd.in/gpvhFYccInternational Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)BC NDP
