In 1911 the Vancouver Firefighters attempted to organize in order to secure better working conditions and wages. Shortly there after they vacated those efforts in favour for a better wage settlement. Some 5 years later in 1916, Vancouver was the eighteenth fire department local in North America to organize, receiving a charter from the American Federation of Labour, and becoming the first Canadian union of fire fighters.

 

After a protracted negotiation that ended in a strike in 1917, the new union was able to secure one day off in four with the savings achieved by the advent of full motorization and the sale of its steamers and horses. On February 28th 1918,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vancouver Firefighters were the only Canadians among a number of unionized fire fighters that came together from across the continent to form the International Association of Fire Fighters. Local 18 and the IAFF are proud of their long association across the continent and the international border.​Local 18 member George A. Richardson, who was present at the inception of the IAFF, served 36 years as IAFF Secretary Treasurer in Washington D.C, and remains the longest serving principle officer of the IAFF. It must not be forgotten that Canadian fire fighters helped to forge this strong organization into what it is today. During its long association with the IAFF, Local 18 has emerged as a leader in the areas of collective bargaining, occupational health & safety improvements, training initiatives, workers’ compensation benefit advocacy, and staffing levels.​

 

Today, 108 years after the the IAFF was formed, the now retired members of Local 18 have taken up the challenge in the spirit of those brothers who have preceded us. Local 18 members as stated have a rich history of activism and leadership. They have been at the front of many of the fights to secure the rights and welfare of all firefighters. Local 18 was one of the leading Locals in the Province to spearhead the change in Presumptive Cancer language when there was few in any cancers accepted as work related in the 80's.​

 

It is important to recognize the impact of mental health issues on firefighters, including PTSI, moral injury, depression, and suicide. These issues are just as real and significant as physical health concerns like cancer. They are a work-related hazard that affects both active and retired firefighters, and should be addressed with the same level of attention and support. Mental health issues do not discriminate and can continue to affect individuals even after retirement.​We are small group of committed individuals determined to work towards a positive resolution for this issue. We are confident that the same spirit that existed over a century ago will provide the motivation to benefit future generations of brothers and sisters.​