Rankin Inlet fire department looks to increase fundraising efforts

The Rankin Inlet Volunteer Fire Department held its annual fireworks to mark 2026 and is planning an Easter Egg Hunt after the 2025 event drew more than 400 children; the department also hopes to launch an annual Firemen's Ball and a vet clinic, with a presentation to hamlet council scheduled for Jan. 26.

The Rankin Inlet Volunteer Fire Department began 2026 with its large annual fireworks display and is now preparing for community events later in the year. The department runs an Easter Egg Hunt near Williamson Lake that Chief Mark Wyatt said drew more than 400 children in 2025 and is limited to kids aged 12 and under. Chief Wyatt said the volunteer crew wants to restart larger fundraisers that paused during the COVID period, and plans include an annual Firemen's Ball and another vet clinic. The department will present its past-year activities and proposals at the hamlet council meeting on Jan. 26. Known details: - The department held a major fireworks display to mark the start of 2026. - The 2025 Easter Egg Hunt attracted more than 400 children and is restricted to ages 12 and under. - Fire Chief Mark Wyatt said the department would like to launch an annual Firemen's Ball as a fundraiser and will present the idea to hamlet council on Jan. 26. - The department also plans to hold another veterinary clinic and is hoping to schedule the first one in April once dates are finalized. - Fundraising proceeds are intended to help cover equipment and supplies the department says are beyond its regular budget, including extrication tools, constant pressure bins, a snowmobile for ice rescues, and uniforms. Summary: These planned events and fundraisers are described as ways to support both community programming and equipment needs the volunteer department cannot fully fund through regular channels. The department will make a presentation to hamlet council on Jan. 26 to review last year and outline proposed activities. Dates for the vet clinic are still being finalized and further steps depend on council approval.