The Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department is a great example of dedication and service. With a team of 25 committed members, and one of six fire departments in their district, it provides vital mutual aid to neighbouring communities, including Centreville. Over the years, the department has grown a lot to meet the growing demands of emergency response, and we’re proud to feature them in this article.
A Legacy Of Leadership
Since the amalgamation of the Florenceville and Bristol departments in 2009, Chief Andrew Cougle has been guiding his team with experience and unwavering dedication. His journey in the fire service actually began in 1980, at a time when joining the department typically happened when you were approached by the fire department chief. Working for a local company just two doors down from the fire station, he was fortunate to have an employer who fully supported his commitment to emergency response.
Back then, the fire department primarily handled basic fires like gas, brush, and chimney fires, without responding to vehicle accidents. However, as the role of emergency services evolved and with growing demand, today the Florenceville-BristolFire Department is dispatched to nearly all incidents requiring first responders within its coverage area.
Addressing Unique Community Challenges
One of the most significant challenges Chief Cougle identified early on was the hazardous stretch of highway leading into Bristol from the little flower shop to Florenceville, where the department’s coverage ends in Stickney. The area runs alongside a river, with steep drop-offs and limited guardrails in certain sections. Recognizing the potential dangers for both residents and visitors unfamiliar with the roadway, the department took proactive measures to ensure preparedness.
For the past 15 years, the team has conducted annual low-angle and slope rescue scenarios to train for emergencies along this corridor. Deputy Chief Mike Palmer monitors this training to ensure the team remains ready to respond to any incidents.
A Fleet Built For The Community
Operating out of two halls, the Florenceville-BristolFire Department has a well-equipped fleet tailored to meet the community’s needs. The Bristol Hall houses the department’s support unit vehicle, which Chief Cougle typically uses to assess situations upon arrival. The department also operates a 2018 custom-built rescue unit and a 2021 pumper, both of which were manufactured by Metalfab to meet specific operational requirements and are in excellent condition. Notably, a firefighter from a neighbouring department was an employee of Metalfab at the time, playing a key role in designing the apparatus.
At the Florenceville Hall, the department maintains two tankers: a 2002 Sterling Metalfab truck and a custom-built tanker designed by the Bristol Fire Department before the amalgamation. The custom-built vehicle was created using an undamaged fuel delivery body and a repurposed highway tractor. “It’s a unique truck, and it was designed by one of our former deputy chiefs. While we don’t remember the exact year it was built, it’s a unique chassis,” says Chief Cougle.
A Memorable Rescue
Chief Cougle shared a memorable rescue with us. One late November, a lost hunter found himself in grave danger after stepping into a beaver pond. He was unable to fire a locating shot due to a compromised firearm. He could hear the approaching rescue teams but struggled to signal his exact location.
Emergency units were on the scene, including ambulances, police, family members, and Deputy Chief Mike Palmer, who ultimately located the hunter by spotting the light from his cell phone. Palmer secured himself with a rope and made his way to the stranded hunter, and then guided him to safety.
Everyone deeply felt the impact of the rescue. The rescued hunter really wanted to thank the team, and on a subsequent Saturday at the Bristol Hall, the hunter expressed his gratitude with a heartfelt handshake, a hug for every firefighter involved, and a financial donation to the department. The story was later featured in the River Valley Sun, highlighting the team’s dedication and lifesaving efforts.
The Call For Volunteers
Chief Cougle is passionate about the importance of volunteerism, not just in the fire service but across all community organizations. Reflecting on past decades, he recalls a time when local groups like the Lions Club and the Legion had a strong volunteer presence, a big contrast with the number of volunteers today.
“Everyone should volunteer some of their time,” he says. “If you’re considering joining the fire service, you need to understand that it’s a big commitment,” he goes on to say.
Becoming a firefighter requires Level 1 certification, which includes 80 to 100 hours of theory, followed by extensive hands-on training. In addition to skill development, the department prioritizes the mental well-being of its members, offering programs to support their mental health.
For Chief Cougle, the hierarchy of priorities has always been clear: family first, followed by work, and then the fire department. “I always tip my hat to any volunteer first responder,” he says. “It’s well-earned.”
The Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department remains a vital part of the community, responding to emergencies with dedication, innovation, and teamwork. From highway rescues to community outreach, the department continues to evolve, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.
As the demand for emergency services grows, so does the need for volunteers, as Chief Cougle shared. For those considering joining, the Florenceville-Bristol Department stands as a great example of service, resilience, and community spirit.
