March 6, 2026 — Six members of the Bellingham Fire Department recently took part in advanced training as part of the department’s Fire Officer’s Academy, continuing their development as future leaders within the organization.

Over the past several weeks, participants have been building leadership and decision-making skills essential for officer roles. As part of the program, the group traveled to Maple Ridge, Canada, where they participated in live fire training scenarios designed to simulate real-world fireground conditions.

During the hands-on portion, firefighters applied tactics, communication, and command skills while operating in a controlled but realistic training environment. The program also involved the efforts of instructors, dispatchers, and support staff, all contributing to the comprehensive development of the department’s next generation of leaders.

Department officials praised the dedication and hard work of everyone involved, noting that continued training and leadership development are critical to maintaining strong and effective emergency response operations.