Lethbridge County Council is funding enhanced radio communication for five fire departments in its boundaries.

The Alberta First Responders Radio Communication System is a two-way radio network used by many first responders in the province and while the network is funded and operated by the provincial government, each municipality has to purchase the required equipment.

The County says Coaldale, Picture Butte, Coalhurst, Nobleford, and Barons will receive just under $290,000 combined which covers 50 per cent of the purchase price for the radios.

Departments already using the new radios will be reimbursed 50 per cent of the cost.