Redwood Meadows Emergency Services – Sep 2026

RMES UNVEILS NEW 120 UTV

Redwood Meadows Emergency Services Unveils New 120 UTV to Strengthen Wildfire Response, Remote Rescues, and Community Safety: Partnership with Basecamp Motorsports delivers advanced off road capability for emergency operations

Redwood Meadows Emergency Services (RMES) has unveiled its new 120 Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV), a mission-critical addition to the department’s wildfire response, remote rescue, and community protection capabilities after it’s previous one was destroyed in a devastating outbuilding fire in December 2025. The Can-Am Defender 6X6 was custom-built and delivered in partnership with Basecamp Motorsports, a leading Western Canadian motorsport and off road equipment provider, thanks to private donations.

The 120 UTV enhances RMES’s ability to reach difficult terrain, transport medical equipment, and support crews during wildfire and severe-weather events. Its arrival marks a significant investment in modernizing emergency response tools for Redwood Meadows and the greater Bragg Creek area, including Tsuut’ina Nation and the Kananaskis.

“This UTV is a game-changer for our operations,” said Redwood Meadows Fire Chief Rob Evans. “Our crews regularly respond in areas where traditional vehicles cannot go. The 120 UTV gives us the speed, stability, and carrying capacity to reach people faster and operate more safely in challenging conditions.”

Basecamp Motorsports worked closely with RMES to configure the UTV for emergency use, including off road suspension upgrades, medical transport capability and equipment racks. Range Mobility donated and installed enhanced lighting for night operations.

“We’re proud to support RMES with a vehicle built for the realities of emergency response,” said Brandon St. Martin, Basecamp Motorsports General Manager. “This partnership reflects our commitment to helping first responders access the tools they need to protect their communities. When lives are on the line, this crew needed a vehicle that wouldn’t quit, and the Defender Limited 6×6 delivers.”

120 UTV will be deployed for wildfire response, remote medical calls in Kananaskis, and community safety. RMES publicly unveiled the vehicle at a formal push-in ceremony yesterday, which saw RMES members ceremonially “push” the new UTV into the station for the first time.

About Redwood Meadows Emergency Services
Redwood Meadows Emergency Services provides fire suppression, medical response, rescue operations, and community safety services to Redwood Meadows, Tsuut’ina Nation, and surrounding areas. RMES is powered by dedicated volunteers and supported by strong community partnerships.

About Basecamp Motorsports
Basecamp Motorsports is a full-service powersports dealership serving Alberta and Western Canada. Known for its expertise in custom builds, fleet outfitting and performance upgrades, Basecamp supports recreational, commercial and emergency service clients.

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Fall in Redwood Meadows and the greater Bragg Creek area brings cooler evenings, colourful foliage, and the return of fireplaces, heaters, and seasonal décor. It’s also a time when fire risks increase – often quietly – as households shift into autumn routines. Here’s a Fall Fire Safety Guide to help your family stay safe, informed, and ready.

1. Home Heating Safety
As temperatures drop, many homes begin using fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters again. These are among the most common sources of fall and winter fires.

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned before your first fire of the season. Creosote buildup is a leading cause of chimney fires.
• Use a sturdy fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
• Keep space heaters at least 1 metre away from furniture, curtains, bedding, and décor.
• Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet, never a power bar.
• Turn off all heating appliances before leaving home or going to bed.

2. Smoke & CO Alarm Readiness
Fall is the perfect time to test and refresh your home’s alarm systems.

• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries if needed.
• Ensure you have carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Replace alarms every 10 years, even if they appear to work.
• Vacuum alarms gently to remove dust that can reduce sensitivity.

3. Seasonal Décor & Holiday Safety
Autumn decorations are beautiful – but some can introduce fire hazards.

• Avoid placing dried leaves, cornstalks, or wreaths near candles or fireplaces.
• Use LED candles instead of open flame candles.
• Check all string lights for frayed wires or damaged plugs.
• Keep exits and pathways clear, especially during gatherings.

4. Outdoor Burning & Yard Cleanup
Dry conditions can persist well into fall, increasing wildfire risk.

• Follow local burning rules and be mindful of burning restrictions.
• Never burn leaves or yard waste – compost instead.
• Store firewood at least 10 metres from your home to reduce ignition risk.
• Clear gutters and roofs of dry leaves and needles.

5. Emergency Preparedness for Fall
Autumn storms, power outages, and early snowfall can create unexpected challenges.

• Prepare a 72 hour emergency kit with water, food, medications, and flashlights.
• Review your home escape plan with all family members – especially visitors!
• Ensure house numbers are visible for emergency responders in the middle of the night.
• Keep driveways and pathways clear as leaves accumulate.

Your professional volunteer firefighters at RMES respond to hundreds of calls each year. By taking simple steps now, you help reduce preventable emergencies and keep our community safer.

Until next month, Stay safe!