Brandon Fire & Emergency Services

05/30/2026

05/29/2026

From everyone at BFES to all of the graduates of Brandon University we would like to congratulate you for all of your accomplishments and wish you all the best in the next chapter for our lives!

Happy Graduation Day!

05/29/2026

Happy Friday! For today's Flashback Friday we are going back 17 years to 2009. This time of year, is always a busy time for BFES with grass fires. Especially with our spring being so dry there have been a lot of grass fires this year.

Under the Fire Prevention By-Law #7200 the City of Brandon has a fire ban in place all year, regardless of conditions.

-Open fires are prohibited at all times in the City of Brandon, except by obtaining a permit from the Department. (currently Brandon Fire and Emergency Services is not approving any permits)
- Fireworks are prohibited at all times in the City of Brandon. except by obtaining a permit from the Department. (currently Brandon Fire and Emergency Services is not approving any permits)
- At this time, using an approved fire pit with a spark arrestor is still permitted to be used in the City of Brandon. The fire pit must be approved by BFES and be used responsibly. It is always good to remember that you should only burn clean, dry, and untreated wood, ensure fire pits are enclosed on all sides, and always have a way to quickly extinguish a fire.

If you live outside the City of Brandon, please check with your RM to see if there is a fire ban in place.

Have a great day and stay safe!

05/29/2026

Do you know what the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is?

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke both stem from extreme heat, but heat exhaustion is a milder warning sign caused by water and salt loss, while heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency where the body's cooling system fails completely and core temperature spikes to (40 degrees Celsius or 104 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher.

If you think you may have heat exhaustion, remember to:

* Stop physical activity & move to a cool or shaded area.
* Loosen tight clothing.
* Sip cool water or sports drinks.
* Take a cool shower or use cold compresses.

Note: If a person does not improve within 30 minutes, it may progress to heat stroke

If you think you may have heat stroke, remember to:
* Call 911 immediately.
* While waiting for help, move the person to a cooler environment, remove excess layers, and actively cool them down with wet cloths, ice packs, or a fan.
* Do not give them fluids if they are confused, vomiting, or unconscious.

Understanding the differences between the two conditions ensures proper action can be taken.

05/28/2026

Happy Thursday! Now that you have checked your BBQ to make sure that it is in good working order, it is time to BBQ! Here are some BBQ safety tips when you are cooking your meal.

1. Keep a 3-foot (1 meter) Kid-Free Zone around you and your BBQ.
2. BBQ's should only be used outdoors away from your home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
3. Keep your BBQ clean by removing grease and fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
4. Never leave your BBQ unattended.
5. Always make sure your BBQ lid is open before lighting it.

Have a great day and stay safe!

05/28/2026

Now that Westman is in an Extreme Heat Warning, it is important to remember to keep hydrated to avoid dehydration.

Here are some tips of ways to keep up your hydration:

1. Set a daily water goal. If you find water too bland, try adding sliced fruits to your water to kick it up a notch. You can even have a friendly competition with a friend to help with water intake.
2. Eat foods that have a high-water content such as watermelon, cucumbers or grapes.
3. Try a glass of coconut water. It has many different health benefits such as helping with digestion and is nutrient dense.
4. Limit your time in the sun as much as possible. Find shaded areas if possible.
5. Enjoy a homemade popsicle.
6. Have a smoothie with your favourite fruits and greens.

Keep cool everyone and stay safe!

05/27/2026

BFES is currently working at a motor vehicle collision at Richmond Ave E. Please stay clear of the area to allow the crews to perform this work.

05/27/2026

With hot weather we are experiencing, Environment Canada has issued a Heat Warning. The Brandon Emergency Support Team (B.E.S.T) would like to share some tips to beat the heat!

🐢Slow Down. Your body can't do its best in high temperatures.
💧Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, even before you feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which can lead to dehydration.
☀️Find Cool Spaces: If you do not have air conditioning, visit tree-shaded areas, splash pads, or public buildings like libraries and leisure centers.
😎Dress for the Heat: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Use a minimum SPF 15 sunscreen and reapply frequently.
👟Adjust Your Routine: Plan strenuous outdoor activities or chores for the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
🏘 Check on Others: Heat disproportionately affects older adults, young children, and those with chronic illnesses. Visit family and neighbors in person to check for signs of heat illness
☀️Avoid Getting Sunburned; it restricts the body's cooling system. Use sunscreen of Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15 or better.

For more information on Extreme Heat please visit www.gov.mb.ca/emo/hazards/extreme-heat.html

05/27/2026

Happy Wednesday! Did you know as of 2019 that overall, there is a declining trend in residential smoking fires, which makes up on average 9% of total residential fires. There is variation among the five jurisdictions however, with the highest percentage in Ontario (14%) and the lowest in Manitoba (4%) according to a report from the University of the Fraser Valley.

Let's keep that trend going by observing the following tips to prevent smoking related fires.

1. If you do smoke, please do outside.
2. When you are finished with your cigarette, please put it out safely. Use an ash tray with a sturdy base or a bucket with sand and make sure that your cigarette is completely out.
3. Do not put cigarette butts in any type of vegetation planter such as flower or tree or in peat moss as not only does it not look nice, but these items are also flammable and could start a fire.
4. Clean out your ashtrays and make sure that the cigarette butts are wet before discarding.

Have a great day and stay safe!

05/27/2026

The members of Brandon Fire and Emergency Services were honoured to es**rt Mady Kennedy into Brandon earlier today. Mady is riding across Canada to raise awareness and funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.

On behalf of everyone at BFES we wish you safe travels.