Chief Nichol Addresses Social Media Concerns

Following recent concerns on social media about the availability of fire equipment, Saint John Fire Chief Rob Nichol has issued a statement to provide clarity and reassure the public. In the official release from the City of Saint John, the Chief confirms that while the department faced fleet challenges, public safety was never compromised.

“We understand that hearing concerns about the fire fleet can be worrying,” the statement reads. “That is why it is important to provide the community with accurate information and clarity.”

Image: City of Saint John

Maintaining Emergency Response

Chief Nichol acknowledged that recently, the department did not have enough heavy apparatus to staff every station as usual. However, he emphasized that all stations remained staffed and the city’s overall emergency response capacity was fully maintained. Fire management redeployed vehicles and personnel to ensure there was no interruption in coverage for the city.

“Fire crews were not out of service; the same staffing was available for response but deployed differently to maintain full citywide capability,” the statement explains.

Why Were Trucks Out of Service?

The fleet issues stem from several unexpected challenges. Three frontline fire trucks were involved in accidents during last week’s storms. One of these vehicles remains out of service pending the arrival of a replacement windshield. The Chief also noted that, like many municipalities, Saint John is facing delays in sourcing specialized parts, which extends repair times. The city’s fleet mechanics are prioritizing fire apparatus but are also managing high seasonal demand for winter vehicles like plows.

The statement also addressed a specific online claim that a ladder truck was returned to service without all functions working. Chief Nichol clarified that the truck was temporarily used as a pumper while its aerial components were being repaired. He assured that the vehicle was safe and effective in this role, a standard industry practice to keep equipment in use while awaiting specific repairs.

Investing in the Future

The City of Saint John is making significant investments to modernize the fire fleet. Nearly $5 million in capital funds has been committed to new apparatus. The purchase of a new ladder truck is in the final stages, a new tanker truck has been approved in the 2026 Capital Budget, and a new engine is under discussion. Furthermore, a comprehensive State of the Fleet Report is scheduled for release by July 2026 to outline a long-term replacement strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Saint John’s fire protection ever at risk?

According to Fire Chief Rob Nichol, public safety was never compromised. All fire stations remained staffed and emergency response capability was maintained by redeploying resources.

Why were fire trucks unavailable?

The shortage was caused by a combination of factors, including three trucks being involved in accidents during a recent storm, mechanical issues, and North America-wide delays in sourcing specialized parts.

What is the City doing to fix the problem?

The City has committed nearly $5 million to purchase new fire apparatus, including a new ladder truck and tanker. It is also developing a long-term fleet replacement plan, which will be detailed in a report by July 2026.

Was an unsafe fire truck put back into service?

No. The Chief explained that a ladder truck with its aerial components under repair was safely and temporarily used as a pumper truck. This is a standard industry practice to ensure vehicles remain in service when possible.