Three-storey training ‘prop’ for Halifax fire crews needs additional $1.5M: report

A Halifax Regional fire truck is shown at the Highfield Park fire station in Halifax on Wednesday, March 25, 2009.

A proposed three-storey “prop” that would let Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency crews practice simulated emergencies will require an additional $1.5 million — on top of its $3-million budget — to be built, according to a report.

Halifax’s audit and finance standing committee is recommending regional council approve the increase to the project’s budget. It also recommends council approve the construction bid for the project from Bird Construction Group.

Council will vote on the recommendations at its meeting on Tuesday.

According to a report submitted to the audit and finance standing committee, the training prop was part of the 2025/2026 capital plan.

“The initial budget of $3.0 million has proven insufficient due to higher-than-expected costs identified during the procurement process, resulting in a funding shortfall of $1.5 million,” the report reads. “The total cost of the project is estimated at $4,485,242, which includes consulting services, fire simulations, the structure itself, and other related costs.”

According to the capital plan, the three-storey prop would be located at the training facility in Halifax. It would include at least two simulated fires, compartments with simulated smoke and spaces for additional training, such as hose advancement, pump operations, and search and rescue.

“HRFE has limited facilities to teach firefighters the skills they require for fire suppression and rescue in buildings,” the plan reads. “A small propane-fueled fire simulator is at end of life. A structural fire training prop will enable the training of firefighters. This will deliver improved public safety.”

The committee report says the 80-by-50-foot structure will be made from concrete due to its realistic appearance and durability. A steel-frame construction was considered, but concerns were raised over its maintenance requirements and potential loss of strength at high temperatures.

Modular shipping containers were also considered for fire training, but the report notes they degrade over time, weaken after repeated fires and lack realism.

“Concrete facilitates the creation of a highly tailored layout, enabling residential building simulations on one floor and commercial simulations on another,” the report reads. “Additionally, concrete allows flexibility in the placement of ladders on the exterior of the structure during training exercises.”

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