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Ontario invests $35 million in fire safety equipment for northern communities

Sept. 7, 2023, Thunder Bay, Ont. – The Ontario government is investing close to $35 million in 17 new fire trucks, lifesaving fire fighting equipment, and two new Mobile Live Fire Training Units for northern communities.

Funding for the new fire trucks and fire fighting equipment is expected to be delivered through the Northern Fire Protection Program which provides assistance and support for fire protection services in 47 communities that rely on more than 800 volunteer firefighters.

The new fire fighting equipment is expected to include self-contained breathing apparatuses, thermal imaging cameras, and other essential fire fighting equipment.

“Investing in firefighter training and safety in the North is critical to safeguarding our communities,” said Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg. “By equipping firefighters with the skills and training they need, we will fortify the resilience of northern Ontario, ensuring the safety and well-being of the people who call this region home.”

The Mobile Live Fire Training Units are expected to help the Ontario Fire College deliver additional hands-on training. The modern mobile units can be transported to local fire stations and simulate real situations. During mobile unit training, firefighters would experience real flames, extreme heat, high humidity, severely restricted visibility, and thick smoke.

Last year, Mobile Live Fire Training Units visited 46 locations across Ontario and trained over 3,000 firefighters, the province said in a press release.

“The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) applauds Ontario’s investments in fire safety and protection in northern Ontario. This commitment to the Northern Fire Protection Program will improve public safety for many communities,” said Deputy Fire Chief and OAFC President Rob Grimwood. “The Mobile Live Fire Training Units have proven to be an extremely valuable resource to Ontario fire services, and adding another two units will improve access to training for firefighters all across the province. OAFC values its partnership with this government and looks forward to continuing to work with them to enhance fire safety for all Ontarians.”