Kevin McKeown (left) and Travis Coleman (right) attend an event celebrating a new fire dispatch partnership between Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services and Blood Tribe Emergency Services. (Photo: City of Lethbridge)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge begins fire dispatch services for Blood Tribe

Feb 24, 2025 | 2:42 PM

A new partnership aims to strengthen emergency communications in southern Alberta.

The Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC) is now providing fire dispatch services for the Blood Tribe Emergency Services (BTES).

LFES Deputy Chief of Strategy and Communications Kevin McKeown says the new arrangement enhances emergency response capabilities and ensures seamless communication during critical fires on the First Nation.

“Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services is honoured to support the Blood Tribe Fire Services through this expanded partnership,” says McKeown. “This milestone reflects our mutual commitment to ensuring the highest standard of public safety for our communities.”

The PSCC handles over 138,000 emergency calls annually for 22 agencies across southwestern Alberta and has provided 9-1-1 call-taking services for the Blood Tribe for many years.

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BTES Fire Chief Travis Coleman says he is pleased to have a stronger working relationship with his counterparts in Lethbridge.

“This collaboration has already improved our department’s communication capabilities internally and with our mutual aid agencies,” says Coleman.

The PCSS says the arrangement further solidifies its role as a vital hub for regional emergency response.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now