Steinbach city council has decided to draft a Fire Prevention and Emergency Services Bylaw. Mayor Chris Goertzen says Fire Chief Kel Toews recommended the move both from a legal standpoint and to clearly define the role and responsibilities of the fire department.

"Looking across the province at what the best practices are for fire departments, having a fire bylaw is important to define clearly what fire departments do, what they are responsible for and to define that clearly so they aren't held liable if all of sudden they're outside those bounds that are presently not set."

Goertzen says the fire department currently follows the stipulations set out in the Manitoba Municipal Act. He adds the intent is for the bylaw to mirror those rules.

"As we have our own bylaw, it'll define more clearly for them what they can do and can't do. This won't change what they're presently doing. It follows the practices they are currently using but it makes sure that we're covered off in case there's some liability when it comes to actions firefighters or the Fire Chief take."

Goertzen adds city council doesn't want to change anything because it is very pleased with the work of the fire department and its efficiency.

Meeting in committee Tuesday, city council voted unanimously in favour of going ahead with the bylaw. Council expects it will be finalized later this year.