Under the previous model, local fire departments were notified of almost all 911 calls. Now, they’re contacted for all life-threatening calls where response time is critical, and when their technical expertise or equipment is needed, such as car accidents and potential drownings, said B.C. Emergency Health Services. In Metchosin, the change means fire chief Stephanie Dunlop often watches ambulances drive past her fire hall while her team sits idle, unable to offer their support to their community members. She watched two go by on Tuesday without a call to her department. “I would understand, you know, the transport-only type calls or something that’s so minor, but when they’re going hot — lights and sirens through the district — that tells me that time is of the essence,” she said.