04/23/2026
Devon Communities in Bloom Recognizes Devon Fire Fighters through Community Spirit Lives Here!
This month, Devon Communities in Bloom is proud to recognize the Devon Fire Department, which is comprised of a small but highly capable group of professionals and volunteers who work together to protect their community.
The Devon Fire Department has a long and proud history. It was originally established by the Imperial Oil Company in 1948 before being transferred to the Town of Devon. One of its earliest fire trucks—a 1944 International surplus vehicle from the Royal Canadian Air Force—was restored in the 1980s by local firefighters. Affectionately known as “Old Red,” the truck remains a symbol of the department’s heritage and can still be seen in the annual Devon Days Parade.
Today, the department consists of a combination of staff and 21 paid-on-call (POC) volunteers. Additionally, there are several new recruits who are undergoing training. Despite being volunteers, these individuals are highly trained. New recruits undergo a rigorous four-month training program to achieve certification, including first aid, and continue to re-certify and expand their skills throughout their service. All members meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 standards through a combination of in-house and regional training.
Recruitment for volunteer firefighters takes place annually in September. Applicants must be over 18 years of age and reside within the Town of Devon. The selection process includes interviews to ensure candidates possess the qualities needed for the role—commitment, reliability, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Devon firefighters handle a wide range of responsibilities. Their duties include responding to structure fires, ground cover fires, medical aid calls, motor vehicle collisions, and dangerous goods incidents. They also provide rescue services, including water and shoreline rescues, conduct fire code inspections, and deliver public education through school visits and community programs. In short, they perform all tasks related to firefighting and emergency response.
The department serves the Town of Devon and the southeastern portion of Parkland County, while also participating in mutual aid agreements with neighboring districts and Leduc County when additional support is required. In 2025 alone, they responded to over 280 calls within the town of Devon and Parkland County.
The department recognizes the emotional demands of the job and emphasizes mental health support. After major incidents, team members participate in debriefings and check in on one another. Training is provided to help firefighters manage stress, and professional support is available when needed.
Devon firefighters dedicate significant personal time to training, responding to calls, and supporting their community—often balancing these responsibilities with family life, and for volunteers their full-time jobs too. You will see firefighters supporting community events, including hosting a pancake breakfast, participating in the Devon Days Parade, handing out candy during Halloween, and taken part in the annual Christmas tree burn.
Devon Communities in Bloom is grateful for the dedication of the Devon firefighters; they make Devon a safer place to live.
