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Honouring a long-time Nakusp firefighter into retirement

Warren was a firefighter in Nakusp for 42 years
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Nakusp Fire Chief Terry Warren is retiring after 44 years.

It’s an honour to celebrate the retirement of a truly remarkable individual, our very own local Fire Chief Terry Warren.

Warren has served 30 years as our fire chief dedicating his remarkable service to the community and outskirt areas. He is retiring from his role this month, a bittersweet moment for all of us.

Terry has been in the fire service for 44 years, with two years in Kaslo and 42 years in Nakusp. Hard to believe in 1920 Nakusp's first volunteer fire department/brigade was formed, and our fire chief has been an instrumental part of this family for nearly half of its existence.

Chief Warren has been more than a leader, he has been the heart of our fire department and a steadfast guardian of our community. From their first day on the job to his final call, has exemplified courage, compassion, and commitment to the safety and well-being of every person in this community and the outskirt areas of the RDCK area K .

In his many years of service, Chief Warren has:

  • Responded to countless emergencies, saving lives and protecting property 24/7;
  • Almost always first to answer the call night or day, first to the scene, taking control as incident command, instructing safe zones, safe fire fighting, road rescue procedures  for his volunteer team, and helping instruct on scene paramedics, RCMP, wildfire crews, aircraft/helicopters, and the safety of the public at the scenes;
  • Trained and mentored the next generation of firefighters, passing down his knowledge and values with the instrumental help of second in command Reg Gustafson;
  • Built strong relationships with neighbouring departments, ensuring mutual support in times of need;
  • Advocated tirelessly for fire safety, prevention, and education, including our young students at our schools ensuring our community was always prepared;
  • Providing support and mental health resources to help his volunteer team cope with the emotional toll, which included:
    • Structured debriefing sessions after traumatic calls to share experiences and emotions in a supportive environment;
    • Fire Investigation, scene management, and inspections;
    • Road Rescue;
    • Wildfire management within and outside the Village;
    • Along with organizing every year with the volunteer fire department & road rescue brigade team the annual Canada day Fireworks that we all love to see.

His leadership was not just about answering the call of duty 24 hours a day, it was about building a sense of trust and connection. Chief Warren knew every road, every family, and every story in this community, and treated every person with respect.

To Chief Warren, being a firefighter wasn’t just a job—it was a calling, a way to serve and protect the people he cared about. His bravery in the face of danger and compassion during times of tragedy have left an indelible mark on this community. We celebrate a career well-lived and a legacy that will endure for generations.

Chief Warren, as you move into this next chapter of your life, we hope you do so with pride in all that you’ve accomplished. You have set the bar high, and your impact will be felt in every corner of this community and area for years to come. On behalf of everyone in this community and surrounding area ,We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering dedication.

You will always be a part of this family, and this community will forever be grateful.

Congratulations on your retirement, chief YOU'VE EARNED IT!

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