The escalating price of diesel fuel is causing concerns among volunteer fire departments in Nova Scotia, as it is a crucial resource for operating their fleet of trucks. With diesel prices hovering around $2.60 per liter, these departments are facing additional financial strain on their already tight budgets.
Chief Rod Nielsen of the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Department in southern Colchester County expressed alarm at the current high prices, noting that all their larger vehicles run on diesel, along with some other department equipment. Nielsen, who also serves as the president of the Fire Service Association of Nova Scotia, emphasized the challenging decisions departments are forced to make in allocating limited funds.
Meanwhile, Chief Richard Heighton of the Caribou Volunteer Fire Department in Pictou County acknowledged that the recent removal of the excise tax on diesel by the federal government has provided some relief. However, the significant price hike over the past year has still doubled their fuel budget, impacting the department’s financial planning.
Apart from diesel costs, fire departments are also grappling with increased expenses for furnace oil to heat their facilities. The rise in furnace oil prices, up by approximately 40%, has added to the financial burden on departments, especially those with large garage spaces that rely on this heating source.
Nielsen highlighted the inefficiency of many fire hall buildings, further exacerbating the financial strain. Uncertainty looms as high fuel prices persist, prompting fire departments to seek cost-saving measures while hoping for some respite in the future.
