08/22/2025
Pembina Alliance Cochin Pipeline Donates $5,000 to Upham Fire Supporters’ SCBA Project
Photo Left to Right PC Kolena Drader
Zachary Christianson UFS Member and UFPD President
Cheston Erdman UFS Member and UFPD Fire Chief
Paul Kleist - Sr Advisor, Emergency Management - Pembina/Alliance/Cochin Pipeline
The Upham Fire Supporters (UFS) have received a generous $5,000 donation from Pembina Alliance Cochin Pipeline to support its ongoing SCBA replacement initiative. The donation reflects Pembina Alliance Cochin’s commitment to community safety and its recognition of the fire district’s vital role in protecting critical infrastructure, including the pipeline itself and the Bantry Meter Station.
The Pembina Alliance Cochin Pipeline is a major piece of energy infrastructure that transports natural gas liquids from Alberta, Canada, through North Dakota, playing a crucial role in the regional energy network. The Bantry Meter Station, located within UFPD’s coverage area, is a key facility that helps maintain safe and efficient flow through the pipeline. Ensuring rapid emergency response capability for these high-risk assets is essential not only for local safety but for broader environmental and economic protection.
In April 2024, UFPD launched Project “SCBA” to replace its outdated Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) gear. SCBAs are essential for protecting volunteer firefighters during responses to fires and hazardous materials incidents. During a recent structure fire described as a “solid smoke” event, UFPD volunteers had to enter through the roof and attic—an operation that would have been impossible without functioning SCBA equipment. The Upham Fire Supporters are assisting the UFPD in fundraising for this project.
“Our previous SCBAs had reached their end-of-life and were no longer viable safety equipment,” said Cheston Erdman, Fire Chief of the Upham Fire Protection District. “Each new SCBA setup includes a carbon fiber tank, face piece, harness, and a thermal imager for added safety. These upgrades are critical for protecting our volunteers during dangerous responses.”
The Upham Fire Supporters, a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to financially and educationally supporting the Upham Fire Protection District (UFPD), have already secured funding for a portion of this lifesaving equipment; however, additional gear still needs to be updated. Through local fundraisers, grant applications, and generous support from the community and businesses like Pembina Alliance Cochin Pipeline, UFPD remains committed to ensuring its volunteers have the tools and training they need to respond safely and effectively.
For more information on how to join or support the Upham Fire Supporters, Inc., please visit their page or email [email protected]
