WHEREAS the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia ICBC is enfranchised to provide basic insurance for all motor vehicles in British Columbia; AND WHEREAS costs in relation to motor vehicle incidents can be reduced and life safety increased by having local jurisdictions provide motor vehicle rescue and first responder services: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government require financial participation by ICBC andor the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Provincial Emergency Program in relation to motor vehicle rescue responses outside of municipal boundaries, in particular through assistance with rescue vehicle operating andor capital costs and the costs incurred by fire departments and first responders for non-emergency motor vehicle accident traffic control and scene security.
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Government is exploring opportunities for revising and enhancing the delivery of out-of- jurisdiction road rescue services. Currently, the Provincial Emergency Program funds and supports road rescue as one of the five Public Safety Lifeline volunteer programs. Funding is provided for road rescue occurring outside of municipal jurisdictions for emergency response; non-emergency costs are not covered. Capital costs for equipment purchase such as jaws of life and rescue vehicles are funded through the Joint Emergency Preparedness Program. Currently, ICBC may accept billings for emergency services from jurisdictions outside of British Columbia. Motorists insured with ICBC and carrying optional coverage for collision, fire and theft are covered for fire department charges if, after careful review, they are found to be legally liable for those charges under that jurisdictions laws.