CANCER IN FEMALE FIREFIGHTERS
FOCUS ON FEMALE FIREFIGHTER CANCER
A new international study provides data on women with cancer in the fire service.
By Larry Thomas, Len Garis and Ian Pike
INTERVIEW
Interview tips and strategies for every stage of your career. By Monique Belair and Jennifer Delaney
28
DIGITIZING DATA, REDUCING RISK
Georgina marks an Ontario first with its innovative community risk dashboard. By Laura Aiken 32
DRIVERS…DON’T START YOUR ENGINES!
Electric fire trucks and the future of transportation. By
Rob Anselmi
FINDING THE RIGHT TYPE OF THERAPY
Defining and understanding which title offers what in the world of mental health.
By Nick Halmasy
BY LAURA AIKEN Editor laiken@annexbusinessmedia.com
D
COMMENT
The mental health maze
id you know that there are only two titles in the mental health field that can provide you with a medical and legally permissible mental health diagnosis? Only a psychologist or a psychiatrist can do this for you. This was news to me, amongst many other things I learned from Nick Halmasy’s informative article on page 38 that breaks down the terminology and services of mental health providers.
By the time someone is reaching a crisis point with their mental health, it is likely very difficult to wade through the decision of what do next; of where to seek help, not to mention a time consuming task to do so. When Nick came to me with this article idea, I thought it was an extremely useful tool to put together. Learning about resources and retaining the knowledge can only help should one reach the point where they need support.
helpful it would be if coping skills became second nature and one had a good handle on when they were sliding towards a dangerous place. But everyone is unique, and so remain the challenges.
Women are a growing demographic in the fire service with unique cancer challenges. See story on page 10.
In March, I completed workplace mental health training through The Working Mind and am grateful for this education provided by my employer. It is not only an opportunity to self-reflect, but a chance to learn how to speak respectfully about mental health and be aware of the signs that someone around me may be moving towards the unwell end of the spectrum.
The Working Mind program identified its “Big 4” methods for building resilience: deep breathing, mental rehearsal, goal setting and positive self-talk. These techniques also benefit from practice to integrate them into how we manage ourselves. Providing education is the first step. Are there ways to support staff with the practice and integration piece? How
Ideally, we are doing the preventative maintenance that helps keep us in a healthy place. Realistically, how we care for ourselves and how we respond to events in our lives is incredibly complex and fluctuating. The fire service and society at large are still working to break down stigma and barriers to normalize conversations around mental health. I feel we have come a long way. There are many mental health champions in Fire, and, for example, seeing Chief Matthew Pegg share in the media that he does his “check-up from the neck up” are impactful demonstrations of leadership. Mental health continues to be topical at every fire chief’s association conference I’ve seen the agenda for. I have no doubt the fire service intends to keep the momentum going. Progress takes time. Take great pride in how far the conversation has come.
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MAY 2023
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STATIONtoSTATION
ACROSS CANADA: Regional news briefs
Dispatch agreement sees reduced lifesaving response times in Markham
Markham Fire and Emergency Services decreased its call to customer time to 60 seconds and improved its responsiveness through a dispatch service agreement with Barrie Fire and Emergency Service. This agreement allows Barrie to provide around the clock emergency call-taking and dispatch service to Markham.
Since the implementation of the service agreement, Markham has seen simultaneous notifications and the modernization of emergency services tools, including upgraded technology on all their fire trucks. Each apparatus is now equipped with a tablet that allows
firefighters to see information in real-time, meaning critical and potentially life-saving information is now received more quickly.
“Through this proactive partnership we have been able to drastically modernize many aspects of fire protection service delivery used at the city,” said Markham’s Fire Chief Adam Grant in a press statement. “This is important for many reasons – one being that we are able to respond faster and more efficiently to any call for assistance we receive, which in some cases can be lifealtering. It also has us well positioned for the upcoming mandatory transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 expected in 2024.”
More support for volunteer fire departments in Nova Scotia
Volunteer and First Nations fire departments, alongside ground search and rescue organizations, and are getting help from the Nova Scotia government to address the impacts of rising operational costs.
Nova Scotia is investing almost $3.5 million to provide one-time grants to more than 340 organizations. Each group will receive $10,000.
Grant recipients can determine how they will use the grant to best meet the needs of the organization, its volunteers, or the wider community. This could include upgrades to equipment or facilities, support for training, smoke alarm campaigns, fire prevention education or honorariums to assist firefighters with increased costs.
“This will help departments with the ongoing and rising costs of fire fighting equipment and operational requirements, said Joey Bisson, chief of the Bible Hill Volunteer Fire Brigade, in a press
THE FIRE HALL BULLETIN
Promotions and appointments
ROREE PAYMENT is the new deputy fire chief in Ontario’s Tiny Township following a one-year leave of absence from Clearview Township. Payment had been the fire chief in Clearview since 2019 and deputy chief since 2013.
KEVIN MCKEOWN has accepted a position with Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services in Alberta as deputy chief. Early in his career, he started with the Coaldale and District Emergency Services in 2007 as a volunteer firefighter and full-time primary care paramedic. Ten years later he became the fire chief, where he spent six years accomplishing several projects with his team.
SCOTT CHUCKREY has been
release. “Departments are hyper aware of the need and necessity of maintaining required safety standards. The additional funding will aid in this process.”
The organizations will not have to apply for the grant, and the funds will go directly to the organizations.
“Throughout the pandemic, the impacts on the volunteer fire departments to raise funds to purchase new equipment and maintain funds to support operational costs, was greatly hampered, said Greg Jones, president of the Fire Service Association of Nova Scotia, in a news statement. “The financial support announced today is greatly appreciated and will assist the volunteer fire departments across our province by easing the burden of fundraising shortfalls and providing the ability to purchase much needed equipment without delay.”
The grants were distributed in March.
named the new deputychief of the Meadow Lake Fire Department in Saskatchewan. He has been with Meadow Lake Fire and Rescue since 2010 and has more than 25 years of experience as a volunteer and career firefighter in three different fire departments.
JEREMY FUNK is the new fire chief and manager of emergency services for Sioux Lookout in Ontario. He is a 12-year veteran of the town’s volunteer fire service
and has lived in the area for nearly two decades. Funk left his fulltime position at the municipality working as the road foreman in the public works department to become chief.
DARREN WATSON has been named fire chief in Ontario’s Brant County. He was a volunteer firefighter, training facilitator and fire prevention officer in Blandford-Blenheim
Ontario puts $113M in budget for emergency preparedness
Community organizations and municipalities in Ontario could get a piece of $110 million in funding the province has committed over three years for emergency readiness.
“Our province’s first responders, community organizations, and those who step up during an emergency are the best in the world,” Treasury Board president Prabmeet Sarkaria said in a statement. “It’s our job to ensure that they have the tools, training, and funding so they can do what they do best.”
The money will partly go toward an emergency management preparedness grant to help community organizations buy equipment for emergencies, and toward a new emergency response fund.
That fund would be for municipalities, First Nations and communities to provide urgent relief in the first 24 to 72 hours after an emergency happens.
The government said funding could be used to mobilize skilled volunteers, deploy co-ordination teams, and provide equipment and financial assistance. Officials said the money could be used in a wide range of emergencies, including floods, wildfires,
drought or extreme heat.
The emergency readiness money is also being put toward expanding an emergency preparedness program that involves readiness exercises. As well, it includes annual funding for communities with nuclear “roles and responsibilities” to help them protect people in the event of a nuclear incident.
Ontario’s auditor general found in an audit last year that
the province should improve its emergency responses, including better delineating roles between the Ministry of Natural Resources, the provincial emergency management office, local governments and communities.
“The Natural Resources Ministry needs to conduct timely and robust risk assessments for hazards it is assigned to manage; forest
fires; floods; drought/low water; dam failures; emergencies involving crude oil and natural gas exploration and production, natural gas and hydrocarbon underground storage, and salt solution mining; erosion; and soil and bedrock instability,”
Bonnie Lysyk wrote in her audit. “It also needs to implement a formal and disciplined approach to reviewing its performance during actual and simulated emergencies in order to identify lessons learned and take corrective actions to avoid recurring issues in future emergency response efforts.”
A derecho that swept through Ontario and Quebec last year was the most expensive extreme weather event for Canada in 2022. It caused $1 billion in damages, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
The City of Ottawa said that it took too long for the province to reimburse the municipality for its recovery costs.
The derecho, a line of intense, fast-moving windstorms, originated around Sarnia, Ont., on May 21 and travelled north to Quebec, causing 11 deaths, damaging buildings and temporarily forcing many people from their homes.
for nearly a decade before joining County of Brant Fire in 2010. Watson was named deputy fire chief in 2019 and then promoted to acting fire chief in 2022.
The City of Timmins, Ont. has named BERNY STANSA its new fire chief. He began his career in 1991 as a volunteer firefighter in Schumacher before becoming a full-time firefighter in 1997. Stansa had been serving as the department’s acting deputy chief since
early 2022.
SCOTT ATKINSON is the new deputy fire chief in Timmins, Ont. He was previously a lieutenant for the department.
Retirements
DAVE ELLOWAY is set to retire after spending eight years with the
Guelph Fire Department in Ontario, and more than two decades with the Guelph Police Service. He joined the fire department as its deputy chief in 2015 and was promoted to chief in 2020.
Last Alarm
Ret. Fire Chief SCOTT BLAKE passed away on Dec. 29, 2022. He served with Lincoln Fire Rescue in Ontario for 47 years,
and rose through the ranks of firefighter, captain, and district chief of Station 4. Blake eventually became deputy chief and then chief.
Ret. Fire Chief DAVID JOSEPH AFELSKIE passed away on Nov. 25, 2022. He was a volunteer fire fighter for Barry’s Bay Fire Department in Ontario for many years before taking on the roles of fire chief and fire prevention officer.
STATIONtoSTATION
BRIGADE NEWS: From departments across Canada
East River Valley Fire Department in Bridgeville, N.S., took delivery of an emergency rescue vehicle from Fort Garry Fire Trucks. Manufactured on a Freightliner chassis with a Waterous CX1000 midship pump, this vehicle features Whelen emergency and scene lights, two FRC push up flood lights, a manual FGFT stainless steel fold down ladder rack, a Zico hydraulic portatank rack with a checker-plated cover, two 1.5-inch speed lay pre-connects, a painted 180-degree, 36-inch telescopic dump chute, Fireman Friend external tank fill, and external suction hose storage.
Peace River Fire Department in Alberta has taken delivery of an emergency rescue vehicle from Commercial Emergency Equipment. Manufactured on a Pierce Enforcer chassis with a Waterous 2000 GPM midship pump, this vehicle features a heavy-duty aerial platform body, 450 HP engine, a Husky 12 foam system and TAK-4 independent front suspension.
Walpole Island Fire Department in Ontario took delivery of an MXV pumper from Fort Garry Fire Trucks. Manufactured on a Freightliner chassis with a black coated aluminum Hale DSD1250 pump, this vehicle features a Whelen emergency and scene light package, Amdor roll up doors, Akron 8800 ball valves, a Hannay hose reel, and a CoPoly 1000 IG tank.
North Bay Fire & Emergency Services took delivery of a crusader tanker from Fort Garry Fire Trucks. Manufactured on a Freightliner chassis with a Waterous CLVK500 GPM pump, this vehicle features Federal Signal emergency lights, FRC scene lights, two 1.5-inch hose bed pre-connects, a 180-degree, 36-inch stainless steel telescopic dump chute, Fireman Friend external tank fill, a Zico hydraulic portatank rack with a checker-plated cover, external suction hose storage and a CoPoly 2000 IG tank.
Winnipeg Fire Department took delivery of a pumper from Commercial Emergency Equipment. Manufactured on a Pierce Enforcer chassis with a Hale 1750 GPM midship pump, this vehicle features a Husky 3 foam system, a Command Zone electrical system, 450 HP engine, TAK-4 independent front suspension and a 500 G tank.
Calgary Fire Department has taken delivery of an emergency rescue vehicle from Commercial Emergency Equipment. Manufactured on a Pierce Enforcer chassis with a Harrison Hydraulic 10 kW generator, this vehicle features a heavy-duty aerial platform body, 500 HP Cummins X12 engine, a Command Zone electrical system, and TAK-4 independent front suspension.
PEACE RIVER FIRE DEPARTMENT
EAST RIVER VALLEY FIRE DEPARTMENT
WALPOLE ISLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PROUDLY CELEBRATING OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY
As we celebrate our 40th year in 2023 along with our customers and employees, we are mindful of the journey that has taken our company from small local builder to a North American leader in specialized vehicle manufacturing. Since 1983 we have worked to meet the highest standards of our industry by listening-to and learning-from the customer and employees who have chosen to be a part of the MAXIMETAL story. We are grateful for our journey and excited for our future as we embark on the next chapter as part of the Oshkosh Corporation group of companies and their passionate, dedicated and
To support those who keep our families safe and comfortable by designing and building
FOCUS ON FEMALE FIREFIGHTER CANCER
New policy and presumptive coverage required to address unique cancer risks for women in the fire service, says international study.
By LARRY THOMAS, LEN GARIS AND IAN PIKE
Like their male counterparts, female firefighters have been shown to develop cancer at rates substantially higher than the general public – as much as 24 to 64 per cent, studies have estimated.
Existing measures to offset a firefighter’s increased cancer risk do not adequately address the variety and earlier onset of work-related cancers in women, suggests a recent international study.
Published in March 2023 in the journal Frontiers in Public Health, the peer-reviewed article “Cancer in Female Firefighters: The Clinicobiological, Psychological, and Social Perspectives” studied how demographics, life experiences and fire fighting exposures impact cancer in female firefighters
in Canada, the U.S. and abroad, and described the cancer characteristics reported by the women.
The research was based on a year-long survey of 1,344 active female firefighters from 2019 to 2020, mostly from Canada and the U.S., along with a comprehensive literature review. Of those surveyed, 256 provided information on their cancer experience and were an average age of 39 at diagnosis. Commonly reported challenges included psychosocial, financial, physical and spiritual, along with lack of support from employers and insurers.
“This work makes an important contribution to the limited body of research available on female firefighter health,” noted Lori MooreMerrell, DrPH, MPH, and U.S Fire Administrator.
“In the traditionally male-dominated career of fire fighting, it’s not surprising that much of the research has historically focused on men’s health. The demographics are changing, however, and the research needs to keep up to provide the same degree of attention and care to all the men and women who help protect our communities.”
Based in B.C., the study team included Kenneth Kunz, Kate Turcotte, Samantha Pawer, Alex Zheng, Amanat Purewal, Alyssa Wellar, Shazya Karmali, Len Garis, Larry Thomas and Ian Pike. The authors brought their knowledge of injury prevention, fire fighting, medicine and cancer to the work, with affiliations to the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit at British Columbia Children’s Hospital, the School of Culture, Media and Society at the University of the Fraser Valley, Surrey Fire Service, and the Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia, as well as expertise in medical oncology, molecular pharmacology and firefighter cancer.
The cancer research builds on earlier work on female firefighter injuries from the same study, published in May 2022 by Frontiers in Public Health in the peer-reviewed article “Female Firefighter Work-Related Injuries in the United States and Canada: An Overview of Survey Responses.”
STUDY DETAILS
Cancer continues to be a principal source of chronic illness and one of the leading types of all-cause mortality in Western nations. Numerous studies have confirmed an association between fire fighting and cancer, but prior to the development of this study, none had included a large enough sample of women to draw specific conclusions regarding cancer risk for female firefighters.
As a result, data is lacking for a variety of parameters related to female firefighter cancers, such as types of cancers, means of clinical presentation, methods of diagnosis, tumour stages, tumour and tissue grading, and therapeutic strategies.
Like their male counterparts, female firefighters have been shown to develop cancer at rates substantially higher than the general public – as much as 24 to 64 per cent, studies have estimated.
In addition to cancers they have in common
with men – such as melanoma, colorectal and thyroid – women are up to 100 times more likely to have breast cancer than men, and are vulnerable to many different forms of female-specific cancers such as endometrial, cervical, vulvar, vaginal, ovarian and fallopian tube cancers. Studies have also pointed to higher rates of miscarriage and delivery of low-birth-weight infants than the general population.
As a step toward closing the gap in female firefighter health data, the research team developed an online survey for female career and volunteer firefighters to gather information on the clinical, social, psychological and financial ramifications of a cancer diagnosis. The study was designed and interpreted by a medical oncologist and promoted through industry blogs, magazines, fire fighting associations and fire/rescue research and health organizations.
Participants provided their consent and answered questions approved by the University of British Columbia Children’s and Women’s Research Ethics Board. The survey was available in English and French from June 7, 2019 to July 19, 2020, using REDCap electronic data capture tools hosted by the Provincial Health Services Authority in B.C.
Survey results were considered alongside a comprehensive literature review of relevant studies in the U.S. and Canada.
THE TOLL OF CANCER
A total of 1,344 female firefighters from 12 coun-
tries responded to the survey, 92 per cent of those from North America. On average, respondents were 39.6 years old and had worked in the fire service for 14.5 years.
The 256 respondents who provided information on their cancer experience tended to be older – an average of 42.8 years old – and were more likely to be career fighters as opposed to volunteers, and hold positions such as company or station officer, driver or engineer, or chief officer or superintendent.
More of the respondents with cancer reported tobacco use than those without (32.8 per cent compared to 24.2 per cent), but there were no statistical differences in alcohol consumption, hormone use, family history of cancer, height, weight and body mass index.
The major types of cancer reported were breast (25.4 per cent), cervical (21.1 per cent), melanoma, (20.7 per cent), basal/skin cell (16.4 per cent), uterine, (14.8 per cent), colorectal (6.3 per cent), thyroid, (5.9 per cent) and ovarian (5.1 per cent). Of note are the higher percentages of cervical cancer and melanoma reported by the respondents than women in the general population.
About 42 per cent of the cancers were detected when the respondents sought medical attention for a symptom, 29.8 per cent during a routine health screen, 28.1 per cent during a specific cancer screen and 6.6 per cent by other means.
For about 46 per cent of those with cancer, the diagnosis had little to no impact on their daily
More of the respondents with cancer reported tobacco use than those without (32.8 per cent compared to 24.2 per cent).
Early cancer detection and treatment saves lives. The survey results analyzed in this research article are an important addition to understanding the potential impacts of workrelated exposures for female firefighters.
lives, other than increased stress while waiting for test results. In these cases, their condition was precancerous or the cancer was either not invasive or had been detected early and treated quickly. Other respondents reported a variety of challenges related to their cancer or treatments, including 33.2 per cent reporting psychosocial impacts (anxiety and impacts on personal relationships), 18.8 per cent reporting financial impacts (early retirement or medical costs), 6.6 per cent reporting physical impacts (pain, feeling ill, recovery, energy level, appearance or anatomical) and 6.3 reporting spiritual impacts.
When it came to reporting cancer to their employer, the leading concern (11.3 per cent) was about keeping health information private, followed by 7.4 per cent feeling vulnerable, 7 per cent about being perceived as weak, 5.5 per cent about experiencing discrimination from supervisors, and 5.1 per cent about losing credibility.
Of those who described barriers to reporting cancer in their workplace, common issues were lack of support from their employer or insurer – such as their condition being minimized or misunderstood – along with increased workplace stress, and the potential for having to engage in litigation with the fire service. Some respondents described added challenges with insurance and presumptive coverage for their cancers, including lack of coverage for female-specific cancers such as ovarian, while coverage was provided for male-specific cancers such as prostate.
The survey also collected information about the mental health impacts of fire fighting, including issues specific to women, such as isolation from being the only female in a department, pressure to perform the same tasks as males, bullying or hazing, returning to work after maternity leave, and fertility issues.
IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES FOR ALL FIREFIGHTERS
Cancer continues to take a high toll on firefighters – in fact, up to 85 per cent of all firefighter cancer deaths in Canada may be caused
by occupational cancers, according to a study that followed Canadian firefighters from 2006 to 2015 and was conducted by researchers at the Injury Research and Prevention Unit at the University of B.C. and University of the Fraser Valley.
New insights on carcinogen exposure highlighted in the U.S.- based peer-reviewed Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene may help change this distressing statistic.
Published in January 2023, “Effectiveness of Dermal Cleaning Interventions for Reducing Firefighters’ Exposures to PAHs and Genotoxins” by Jennifer L. A. Keir, Tracy L. Kirkham, Rocio Aranda-Rodriguez, Paul A. White and Jules M. Blais suggests that traditional decontamination methods have no impact on the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the urine of firefighters.
These findings point to the need for measures that reduce firefighters’ initial exposure to toxins. Some potential solutions may be found in the journal’s August 2022 article “Hierarchy of Contamination Control in the Fire Service: Review of Exposure Control Options to Reduce Cancer Risk” by Gavin P. Horn, Kenneth W. Fent, Steve Kerber and Denise L. Smith.
Horn et al. identified a variety of evidence-based measures to better separate firefighters from toxins, including changes during emergency responses (including procedures and configuration of apparatus and fire stations), options for live-fire training including alternate fuels and virtual reality, revisiting materials used in flame retardants and personal protective equipment, switching to hybrid or electric vehicles, and enhancing public fire prevention education.
Canada’s lawmakers are also taking promising steps that could help save firefighter lives.
Bill C-224, a Private Member’s Bill sponsored by MP Sherry Romanado of LongueuilCharles-LeMoyne in Quebec, is proposing a national framework for the prevention and treatment of cancers linked to fire fighting.
At the moment, firefighters across Canada do not have receive the same level of cancer care because not all provinces recognize the full range of occupational cancers experienced by male and female firefighters.
Bill C-224 intends to raise awareness of all types of fire fighting-related cancers, with the goal of improving access to cancer prevention and treatment across the country. The bill received third reading in the House of Commons in March 8 and first reading by the Senate March 9, at time of publication and preceding was also considered by the Standing Committee on Health following presentation of the amended report in December 2022.
While these initiatives show promise in expanding the knowledge and awareness of the cancer risks faced by firefighters, continued and dedicated effort is required to address the imbalance of attention paid to female firefighter cancers and health.
“Early cancer detection and treatment saves lives. The survey results analyzed in this research article are an important addition to understanding the potential impacts of work-related exposures for female fire fighters.” said Victoria Lee, MD, MHP, MBA, CCFP, FRCPC, president and chief executive officer, Fraser Heath Authority in British Columbia.
Read “Cancer in Female Firefighters: The Clinicbiological, Psychological, and Social Perspectives” in Frontiers in Public Health at frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/ fpubh.2023.1126066/abstract.
Larry Thomas is the Fire Chief for the City of Surrey B.C. and is an Executive Chief Fire Officer, ECFO and Chartered Manager, C. Mgr with 31 years’ experience. He has a background in Science from Simon Fraser University and Economics from Douglas College. Contact him at LSThomas@surrey.ca.
Len Garis, Fire Chief (ret) for the City of Surrey, B.C., associate scientist emeritus with the B.C. Injury Research and Prevention Unit, adjunct professor at the University of the Fraser Valley, and a member of the Affiliated Research Faculty at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York. Contact him at Lwgaris@outlook.com. Ian Pike is a professor with the Department of Pediatrics in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia, Director of the British Columbia Injury Research and Prevention Unit, Investigator for the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, and Co-Executive Director for the Community Against Preventable Injuries. Contact him at ipike@bcchr.ca.
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BY MATTHEW PEGG Fire Chief Toronto
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Away from the lights
n my role as fire chief, I am often involved in formal, official, and high-profile events, ceremonies, and functions. Press conferences, public events, and speaking engagements are increasingly common, both for me and members of my command team. Today, and perhaps increasingly in the post COVID-19 pandemic era, fire service leaders are familiar faces in our communities, both in the media and on social media.
You know from many of my previous articles, that I truly believe there are few roles more important for fire service leaders than to be the face and voice of calm during difficult times and emergencies.
However, the more experience I gain as a leader, the more I continue to learn that the most important work ever done by leaders almost always happens away from the lights.
The most impactful leadership moments often don’t happen at press conferences, formal ceremonies, nor through vibrant and scripted public events. Rather, the biggest leadership impacts happen in the dark, behind the scenes, in the shadows, and in the places most often unseen.
The one-on-one discussions that happen out of the public eye; the warm and appreciative smile on a nasty, cold night; or going to see someone personally when you need to either apologize or say thank you are all examples of where real leadership impacts are made.
Recently, I was asked when it is important for the leader to show up personally. That question caused me to think about an important leadership truth: the most important time for a leader to “show up” is when they really don’t want to.
or uncomfortable something is for a leader to do, the more important it is that we do it.
Recently, albeit more than 20 years since I worked directly with Chief Wilson, it was his phone call that let me know that I needed to get up and go visit with my friend, Phil Brownlee.
To be honest, I didn’t want to go to the hospice to see Phil, as I really didn’t want to accept what that inevitably meant. But I went anyhow, and was able to share some laughs, learn even more about the life and career of this Canadian golf legend, and most importantly to say goodbye to someone who was both very important to me and whom I proudly called my friend. Phil passed only a few shorts days later.
There was nothing visible or public about Randy’s phone call to me, nor did anyone know that he called me. I know that it wasn’t easy for him to make that call, and to share the news he needed to share with me that day. Yet, he called me anyhow and his leadership made a difference in the lives of both Phil and I that day. I will forever be grateful that Chief Wilson cared enough to make that uncomfortable call to me that day.
In my own experience, I know that some of the most difficult places I have ever been, and some of the most difficult things I have ever done,
The key ingredient in the recipe for authenticity as a leader is vulnerability. ‘‘ ’’
I rather reluctantly admit that with every passing birthday, it seems to be harder and harder to get up in the middle of the night to personally attend fatal, critical injury and other emergency incident scenes, only to then carry on with a full day of meetings, events, and evening appointments afterwards. But, as the fire chief, it matters that I do, and I won’t have it any other way so long as I serve in this role.
As a young deputy fire chief, then Ajax Fire Chief Randy Wilson taught me more than I have ever properly thanked him for. One of the leadership truths that Chief Wilson taught me is that the more difficult
Matthew Pegg is the chief with Toronto Fire Services, having previously served in Georgina, Ajax and Brampton, Ont. Contact Matthew at matthew.pegg@ toronto.ca and follow him on Twitter at @ChiefPeggTFS.
didn’t happen on stage, or under the lights of public visibility. Rather, the most important things tend to happen away from the lights, in the dark and out of the public eye, and they happen in the places and times where they go largely unseen.
The key ingredient in the recipe for authenticity as a leader is vulnerability. Vulnerability lives in the places where we simply don’t want to be – in the tough conversations, the inconvenient situations, and those places where the knot in our stomach becomes the most pronounced.
Thank you, Chief Wilson, for reminding me that, as leaders, the more difficult something is to do, the more important it is that we do it.
TECHTALK Spring truck clean up: Going deep
By CHRIS DENNIS
Spring has arrived! Hopefully everyone is healthy and safe and adjusting to the new post-covid world order, though some things never change, like the fact that spring is the time to have your apparatus well looked over. If you require an annual safety inspection in your province, and it is not due, spring is still the best time to go deep.
Winter has been hard in many places this year, but not so much in others, but everywhere de-icing programs have now subsided until the fall. Winter road salt, sand and plain old dirt has migrated far into the bodies and chassis. What we don’t see won’t hurt us, right? This is the farthest thing from the truth. Most de-icing agents go on as a liquid when applied to the roadways and usually before the onset of ice and snow. When the bad weather comes, it activates the de-icing agents and puts them to work. This is an effective measure. It is environmentally stable in most cases and works safely to keep ice off the roads. However, like its road application, once it sprays up into the chassis of the trucks and apparatus it will flow into every nook and cranny and then dry. Once it dries it lays dormant until the next time it gets wet. Now it won’t be ice or snow, but a spring or summer shower. The water will splash up into the body and chassis, flow into those nooks and crannies, and activate this now highly corrosive cocktail. In these confined areas, the corrosion spreads and is well protected to continue to eat away at steel and aluminum. It eats
wiring connectors and worst of all, if left undetected, begins the process of destroying cross members and causing frame damage.
An aerial truck or platform sits exposed on top of the trucks (I am referring to a hydraulically driven aerial, be it aluminum or steel). The de-icing agent runs into and down the beams under the rubber rung steps and under foot holds, stokes basket and pike pole holders. It is out of sight and out of mind. A paint chip is all it takes for this liquid corrosion to get under the paint and begin eating the metal material the paint was protecting. By the time you see the paint lifting, the corrosion process has already removed metal material, making it brittle or no longer suitable to perform the task it was designed to do as its integrity, rigidity, and strength has now been degraded by its erosion.
I recall a time that a steel painted refurbished ladder needed to be sent back to the manufacturer, where it was completely disassembled and rebuilt like new with thr latest technology and certifications, and then repainted. I brought in a third party to perform structural measurements and a thickness test. It didn’t seem like it would pass, but it was well within limits for a long time to come. The area was treated, primed and painted with POR 15 paint. Then colour matched once dried.
Another story: roll up doors that appear to have been hit with a machine gun. Random raised spots all over. The door lats were corroding
A full vehicle wrap job is less expensive than paint and the image can be changed easily.
ALL PHOTOS: CHRIS DENNIS
from the inside out. These are not things you want to see.
THE BIG SPRING CLEAN
For your going deep spring clean, empty the compartments using a debrining or salt eliminating solution that is not caustic and is environmentally friendly. Wash out each compartment thoroughly. If electrics are present, use caution and care. If unsure, then speak to a technician prior to wetting down the area in question. Once clean, a clear silicone base spray-on product can be used as a sealer. It’s not a forever thing but works from season to season. We use a product that protects rubber as well, it won’t let it dry out and dirt and grime won’t stick.
Use an under-wash vehicle system (we got one off Amazon, of all places). It clips onto the pressure washer and has wheels and jets. Roll this under the rig using a debrining agent. Super soak the underside. This part may seem crazy: Take it for a drive with the debrining solution. It will blow back into the areas you can’t spray and will begin working on the stuff you can’t see. Do this a few times over the warmer months so that when fall comes you can rust proof this rig and it too will slip into the hard to get spots and protect it for the winter.
We lift the truck to spray down and debrine entirely under the chassis. We have lifts for this. If you don’t, your truck repair shop should. Let this soak as per manufacturer instructions. Then every nut and bolt we can see or can get a wrench on, is torqued and then head painted to monitor if it moves. This way we can see throughout the year if a bolt is missing or has loosened off. This has happened purely because of rust. We then rinse it off, let it dry and send it out for rust proofing, in our case. The program is time consuming as the truck is out of service for three days alone. The result is preventative maintenance and a warning device of something happening, as well as serving the purpose of inspecting things and areas you take for granted (things that go bad and cost large amounts of money or result in catastrophic failure).
Ladders need washing, degreasing and lubrication. Spring is the time. A crew of four can have this done with a multi-fly ladder or platform in four to six hours. Single fly ladders take a few hours. To save your investment, a time investment or large financial investment must be made. Keep aluminum and steel ladders clean and lubricated as per manufacturer guidelines and they will last.
One challenge might be getting the firefighter of this generation motivated to do more with the trucks. The firefighter of today could be more of an academic, but there is something to be said about being hands-on. Its like doing forcible entry or ventilation. Until you use the tools and get physical, it’s difficult to truly understand.
Undetected corrosion can be overlooked. Aerial cleaning annually will detect this before it becomes more costly.
TECHTALK
Your yearly budgets must include money for clean-up and corrosion avoidance.
At the height of covid I saw so many sanitation systems being used and up for sale: ultraviolet to kill air born germs, spray systems in cabs and station air purifiers. We were all so concerned for our well-being inside the rigs that we didn’t always consider the other side; the part where this truck needs to get you safely to the next call. If the trucks don’t run, you don’t get the job done. If your department has a dedicated apparatus repair division, you’re lucky. This is a costly division but keeps the rigs running 24 hours a day. Those that depend on the municipal or city fleet garage or an outside repair shop have some disadvantages, however, creating a deep clean program to be done in the spring and throughout the entire year (spring is the big one, then maybe every other month), will keep you ahead of the curve so these million-dollar rigs will last and look as good when they retire as the day they went into service.
If paint is an issue, have a hard look at a body wrap. We recently wrapped our service truck. Unfortunately, it sits outside most of the time. The paint had faded badly to the point where it looked orange. The truck was nowhere near ready to be retired but a fresh look would help. To paint the truck would take it out of service for three weeks, but to have it wrapped was only a week. We prepared the truck and had this job done. It looked like a new truck, which was a huge boost to the division and the floor. I have wrapped vehicles for the fire fleet in the past. For fire prevention we used education advertising. In operations, we used messages of praise and hope. Some were small wraps and some were full wraps. On average, the wraps lasted three to five years. The vinyls used today are much easier to remove as well. If the message changes, so does the look and that is a fresh, deep clean look. Wraps are not expensive, protect the truck, and allow the tax payers dollars to go further by keeping the equipment looking good and lasting longer.
The budgets you work on every year must include money to be invested purely in clean-up and corrosion avoidance. Include the cost of rust proofing a fire truck at your local rust protection facility. Ask them how much they will charge to debrine as well. This is better than nothing and will enable the fleet to last longer in our winters and possibly in your environment if corrosive materials are used to de-ice. You can buy bulk products that can be diluted and mixed and run through station power washers in the hall. Look into under chassis wash bars that go onto your power washer. If there is a municipal wash bay, look into a joint venture with the fleet department to add under chassis wash systems. I am sure city dump trucks, etc., can all use this type of deep clean.
This may not be all that technical, but it will surely assist with keeping the rigs we have looking grand, clean, and fit to run first to the finish safely every day. Remember my friends, rubber side down!
Chris Dennis is the chief mechanical officer for Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service in Ontario.He can be reached at Chris.Dennis@vaughan.ca.
Use a pressure washer under vehicle spray nozzles. It is also useful to debrine and apply salt eliminator through the pressure washer on underside of the rigs.
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THE BIG INTERVIEW
Interview tips and strategies for every stage of your career
By MONIQUE BELAIR AND JENNIFER DELANEY
Your cover letter and resume have been submitted, online questionnaire completed, and the waiting begins for that eagerly anticipated phone call from the recruiter (not all departments use HR now). That one phone call instantly generates feelings of excitement, pride and anxiety all at the same time. But, are you ready for a face-to-face interview? The real work begins with laying the perfect foundation for proving why you are ideally suited for the role.
There are many key things that you can do to get ready to apply for a position, interview and do the follow up interview. They are all connected and doing the proper preparation will place you in the optimal position to demonstrate to the interview panel why you are their strongest candidate. There are some strategic differences in how to prepare for that first job compared to promotions, changing roles, or changing departments.
There are some fundamental steps required to prepare for any interview. The initial questions should be: Do I want to work at this fire department. Why do I want to work for this fire department? Is it a good fit for me? You may think that working anywhere is good, but you need to consider what your future career looks like in five, 10 and 20 years from now. Is this the fire service that will help you obtain
Reviewing the job posting and your application is a first critical step in preparing for the interview because it reaffirms that you are still interested in a position with this fire department.
PHOTO CREDIT: JENNIFER DELANEY
your goals? It is important that the culture of this fire service will make you happy, is a good fit and at the same time allow you to progress in your career.
Here are the key things you should do to prepare for any interview.
Review: Review the job posting and your application. This is the first critical step in preparing for the interview because it reaffirms that you are still interested in a position with this fire service. Make sure you note any changes in your qualifications, certifications or relatable job skills you have acquired since applying so that you can review them with the interview panel. Review recent media/social media posts about the department and things that are hot topics, significant programs or news events.
Research: Research communications via public notices, social media and the town/city website. Know some things about the area: industry, tourism, special sites and activities in the community. Learn about the fire department, including the number of staff and stations, what core services they deliver in the community, call volume and the number of calls based on type. You should also know who their fire chief, deputy chief(s) and key management members are.
The more you learn about the municipality, fire department, organization and strategic plan the more informed questions you can ask during the interview.
Know the Fire Master Plan as it speaks to the role of the fire service in that community and what their goals are. The establishing and regulating by-laws mandate council approved level of service to the community. The Municipalities Strategic Plan will outline where the city will be in five, 10 or even 15 years. Reviewing the municipality’s mission, vision and goals will assist you in determining if they align with your own career plans.
PREPARATION
Generally, most initial interviews provide you with a very short window of time to make a great first impression. When practicing your answers, keep in mind short statements that cover the key skill you are highlighting. There will likely be a panel of people involved in the interview. Be prepared for this. Selfconfidence comes from feeling well prepared, and sure of yourself and your ability to represent your best self to the interview panel. Prepare for the interview questions by creating a list of experiences you have that
demonstrate key skills: leadership, organization, teamwork, following procedures, dealing with the public, managing difficult people in emergency situations, and resolving conflict. Many interview questions have changed to align with the behavioural format: Tell me about a time when you…failed, took the lead on a project, or had difficulty with a co-worker or supervisor. Be prepared to answer why they should hire you, what you are most proud of, and what is your greatest strength and weakness. The weakness should speak to how you or someone else identified the weakness and how you have worked to overcome or manage that weakness.
To prepare for the interview, consider asking a friend to role-play with you. Practice, practice, practice answering all kinds of questions out loud to another person. You can also practice in the mirror or video yourself. You will hone your interview skills with the visual feedback on how you look and sound when you speak. This method is more effective than just being told about the mannerism as seeing it allows you to recognize the problem and change the behaviour.
A good way to prepare for answering behavioral interview questions is to use the STAR
method: Situation, Task, Action and Result. Remember, a good first impression in an interview is crucial to your chances for moving forward in the recruitment process. Arrive early to demonstrate your ability to be prompt, dress professionally and be respectful at all times during the interview.
KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE APPLYING
There are many firefighters just starting down the path of fire service recruitment. The most important thing you can do is decide what factors influence where you want to work. Will you move for a job? Does it need to be in a driveable distance from your home based on the frequency you are driving there? Many people say they will work anywhere, but we would suggest that you do some research on the department, their culture and try to meet people that work there to determine if you like what you have learned. Seniority is a key piece in the fire service, so changing departments after a few years of a full-time role may not be as easy as you think. Some departments require you to serve five years with them or you will owe them a significant fee for your recruit training. Know what is required
when you apply in relation to certification, documentation, vaccination records, driver’s abstract, scanned copies of your education or first aid certificates and have these available to scan as part of your application process. Look at the requirements in recruitment postings from previous years to see what the core requirements are. This will allow you to have everything ready for when their recruitment opens, avoiding a last-minute scramble.
Prepare for your interview by creating that list of examples of key skills noted earlier; stories you have from jobs, volunteering or life experiences. Practice relaying that story concisely as generally time is limited in the first interview. Be honest but also tactful when answering questions. Stay on topic when answering questions! Remain clear and concise in your answers. As a fire chief, I (Belair), have seen many interviewees become uncomfortable with the quiet once they have sufficiently answered the question and start talking to fill the silence, often saying things that get them eliminated as a candidate. Practice answering the question and then stop talking and wait. Remain positive with your answer even if it is a question that relates to a conflict with another employee or supervisor. Tell your side of the story but avoid criticizing previous employers or supervisors. Avoid using industry acronyms when providing an example because not all of the interviewers on the panel may be familiar with that jargon.
The next step to getting ready for recruitment is looking at what the process involves. Is there a written test as the first step? Does your department policies or collective agreement speak to the promotion process? What do you need to study to prepare? Do you need to do a specific physical test? Matching your resume and cover letter with the same terms and language used in the job posting will also help you in larger recruitments that use scantron technology in their selection process of the candidates moving forward.
Once you have finished researching the area and job you are applying to, you can move to the next step and create a cover letter that matches up with what you have learned about the position. It is recommended you do this process for each cover letter. Do not send the same cover letter to each city or town. Many people forget to change the town name somewhere in the letter, and it gets sent straight to the trash pile. Your resume can remain predominantly the same, while perhaps changing your objective line to make a specific statement about that
location. You may want to phrase it as “working as a ____ for the XYZ Fire Department” at the end of that objective statement at the top of your resume. Work hard to find one thing you can speak easily about in that location, whether it be the butter tart festival, a tourist location, or a family story if it is a place you live. Make it personal to show the area appeals to you and you have a connection there.
PROMOTIONS
Competing for a promotion will be similar, yet also different than it was for you as a new fire service member. You understand your department and the culture already, but you may need to do some investigating on what work is involved in the rank you are competing for. Every department has a promotion policy. Sometimes it is spoken to in the collective agreement or in city/ town or fire department policies. It is important you know how the process works, the timing involved and what you will be required to do. Some departments will have their personnel write an exam on corporate and fire department policies, procedures and operational objectives. Ensure you have the requirements listed in the job and prepare for any testing. You may have both an interview and a scenario-based evaluation. Carefully review all the information shared with you about the job competition and the information you should review, the skills or abilities you may be asked to demonstrate, and how the ranking of candidates will work. Before you start the internal promotional process, reach out to your supervisor and have a conversation about expectations for the role. Speak with others that have gone through the process for guidance on how they prepared for the new role and what made them successful in the process. If available, speak with the individual leaving the position about what their responsibilities, challenges and expectations were for the role. If your department has performance reviews, look them over carefully. Identify any strengths and weaknesses, areas of accomplishments or issues you may have had to address, and did you? The interviewers will have copies of your reviews, so you need to be prepared to discuss this information. Prepare to answer questions about departmental policies, guidelines and procedures, health and safety, corporate policies, related Standards to the position, how to manage people and the reporting structure. Be sure to have a list of relatable examples and your “tell me about a time” stories are organized and
practiced. As stated above: PRACTICE…out loud! We are all very good about responding to questions in our head and thinking we sound great. Once you start practicing out loud, you realize how disjointed things may sound and how many “ums” and “ahs” are in the answer. As stated earlier, it will be beneficial to practice answering questions with another person to iron out any challenges you have. You will also need to practice answering the questions, and then stop talking and wait.
LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
Competing for a leadership role will require some of the same steps as the promotion, but with a slightly different slant: strategic thinking. In a deputy chief or chief position, you are responsible for the direction and function of the department. You need to be good at looking forward and thinking about the big picture while also monitoring the daily functions. Understand what challenges the department currently faces, such as city growth, staffing or vehicle issues, significant changes to the services provided in the community or firefighter certification, could all be things you need to be aware of. It can be challenging to delegate the work required to resolve a problem or concern, rather than just stepping in to take care of it yourself, but it is important for you to be able to build your team and speak to this. Expect that there will be an interview panel, potentially including area chiefs or deputy, to have diverse representation in the panel members. You will have done all the research on the community. You will also have that “story/situation” list ready to be able to respond on how you would manage various circumstances in the community or department. This could be a staffing problem, significant event, regional emergency, or a bargaining unit/union challenge. You should read as many of the council reports and minutes as you can to see the direction of big projects and the fire department overall within that city or town. You should be very familiar with the Master Fire Plan and any strategic plans the city or town has overall or for their emergency services. Be aware of any big projects in the area and how they will affect population, housing, commuting and jobs. It would be practical to understand the industry and what they have planned in the next few years. Be prepared to explain where you see the focus of that fire department to be in the next two to five years and what you have identified as important items to try to resolve early on if you were chosen.
For any job interview you should consider carefully what life experience stories you have that will not only highlight your personality, and the skill or attribute you are trying to project. It should be something that is memorable or meaningful to you so it shows when you are talking about it. This might be a competition you were in that demonstrates a commitment to training, pushing yourself to achieve a goal or winning something. Consider a big project that you and your team worked on with a successful outcome or something you worked hard to overcome. Whatever you choose, make it more than “I trained really hard at the gym to pass my fitness test.” It is hard to determine the best way to be unique or memorable without seeming quirky, but being engaging, doing your best to connect with your interviewers, and being yourself is a solid start. Do not lie during your interview; it’s not worth it.
Practicing answers, talking about experiences, or answering the questions you expect to be asked and recording yourself are the true keys to success.
CLOSING OUT AN INTERVIEW
You want to leave the interviewers with a lasting impression, so be sure to do the following:
• Ask only relevant questions to the position. Don’t ask a question just for the sake of asking one.
• Include any additional information for the interviewers that you feel may be significant in their decision to move you forward in the process that was not covered in the questions.
• Relay to the interviewers how this interview discussion has confirmed your interest in the role with their department.
• Be sure to conclude the interview politely and respectfully.
• Thank the interview panel for their time with you and the invitation to compete for the position.
Once you have had your interview, take a few minutes as soon as you are finished to make notes about what you were asked and how you answered it. Do it in a quiet place before you speak with anyone else. Reviewing this information later will help you polish your answers for the next interview, and help you identify areas you may need to practice more.
The fire service can be a large community and a small circle, all at the same time! Work to develop a good reputation and name in your department, your community, and in all the things you do. It will help you when you least expect it. Make connections with other fire service people at conferences, meetings, courses, and events — you never know when you may need feedback or information from an outside source. Start preparing now for what your next step is going to be. You never know what opportunities may arise!
Chief Monique Belair has been a Canadian Armed Forces firefighter, worked as a specialist for the OFM and was acting manager for two years. She was previously deputy chief in St. Catharines and Oakville, fire chief in Belleville and now the Fire Chief in Kingston, Ont. Belair is an advisor for the Humber College communication curriculum and on the Loyalist College pre-service program advisory committee.
Jennifer Delaney has been in the fire service for 18 years and held roles as a training officer, fire inspector, fire and life safety educator, fire investigator, firefighter (volunteer), OFC adjunct instructor, pre-service instructor and OAFTO member.
BY LAURA KING NFPA Regional Director Canada
YNFPAIMPACT
Understanding the PFAS issue
ou may have heard of PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – a large, complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products around the world since the 1950s.
PFAS are found in everyday products; they keep food from sticking to packaging and cookware and make clothes and carpets resistant to stains. PFAS are also found in the moisture barrier in bunker gear to help ensure that critical layer does what it’s supposed to do – prevent water, hazardous materials, and body fluids from reaching firefighters’ skin.
As the U.S.-based National Intitute of Environmental Health Science explains on its website, PFAS molecules have a chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms. Because the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest, these chemicals do not degrade easily in the environment.
Like so many other substances that manufacturers have used to solve a problem, there are potential health problems associated with PFAS, from immune system issues to some forms of cancer.
More than 9,000 PFAS have been identified. Everyone is exposed to PFAS, and over time, some people may take in more PFAS than they excrete.
One report suggested levels in people have been reduced since legacy PFAS were removed from consumer products in the early 2000s. But new PFAS have been created and exposure to them is difficult to assess. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences says more research is needed to understand all sources of exposure, and if and how PFAS may cause health problems.
Which brings us to NFPA 1971, Standard for Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting. NFPA 1971 is part of the standards consolidation process that will reduce the number of emergency response and responder safety standards to 29 from 90, to prevent duplication and confusion, and streamline the standards development process. NFPA 1971 – along with NFPA 1975 (protective ensembles), NFPA 1981 (SCBA), and NFPA 1982 (PASS) – will become part of the new NFPA 1970, Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural and Proximity Fire Fighting, Work Apparel and Open-circuit Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for Emergency Services, and Personal Alert Safety Systems (PASS).
October and, depending on further input, the new standard will be issued in either January or June 2024.
Historically, NFPA 1971 outlined the testing components for all the parts of firefighter personal protective equipment, including the moisture barrier, but did not indicate what materials were to be used – that was up to the manufactures.
There are five technical committees advising the development of NFPA 1970 (you can find details at www.nfpa.org/1970); the committees comprise manufacturers, fire departments, occupational health and safety proponents, researchers, IAFF representatives, Underwriters Laboratories, and several other subject matter experts. NFPA facilitates the standards development process; staff do not participate.
Recently, some groups wanted the moisture barrier removed. Instead, the proposed new standard addresses PFAS concerns in other ways.
Proposed changes in first draft of NFPA 1970 require that manufactures not use PFAS in new gear. Proposed changes include:
Elimination of the light degradation resistance test on the moisture barrier layer of jackets; this is replaced by a multi-environmental conditioning procedure that will be applied to composite test samples before
As is the case with all NFPA standards, NFPA 1970 is undergoing an extensive public-input process. ‘‘ ’’
As is the case with all NFPA standards, NFPA 1970 is undergoing an extensive public-input process. The second-draft report is due in
Laura King is the NFPA’s regional director in Canada. Contact her at lking@ nfpa.org and follow her on Twitter at @LauraKingNFPA.
certain tests.
• Requirements for manufacturers to indicate that gear is PFAS free.
• Requirements for acceptable levels of specific restricted substances and a test method to determine the presence and quantity of specific restricted substances.
• Requirements to test for ease of cleaning.
• Requirements to test for liquid repellency and penetration resistance of persistent contaminants.
• Added requirements to test for leaching of material substances. There may be more changes as the standard development process continues.
To follow along with the development of NFPA 1970, go to www. nfpa.org/1970 and click on e-mail alerts.
BACKtoBASICS
Garage fires: Part 3
By MARK VAN DER FEYST
In our continued look at garage fires and the hidden dangers that are found within and outside them, we are progressing to examine the hidden dangers that lay within the garage. This is a concerning area because we are not able to see or know ahead of time what is inside the garage. We will see dangers on the outside on arrival as part of our sizeup, but the inside is a complete unknown.
When we study hazardous materials operations response, we look to the placard to identify what we are dealing with inside a container. When the commodity is a mixed load, the “Dangerous” placard is used to identify it. This is the same approach that we must take with garage fires. They are a mixed fuel load of “who knows what” and if we could placard garages, they would all have the “Dangerous” placard on the outside.
For most homes across our country, the garage is used for more than just vehicles. The garage has become a storage unit, a den, a converted office, a workshop, a workout area, or a mixture of the uses mentioned. No matter what size of home we are responding to, the garage seems to be a multi-purpose or multi-use area for the homeowner.
The biggest hazard in a garage will be the vehicle. This is due to the large fire load that it is – a heavy laden hydro-carbon fuel box containing multiple fluid systems, including gasoline. Along with the hydro-carbon fuel, we are also finding electrical fuel sources as well. This may include charging systems being used to recharge a hybrid or electrical vehicle.
We can’t forget that the vehicle will also contain items inside in the occupant compartments as well as the truck or pick-up truck bed or in the storage areas of other types of vehicles. These items are also unknown and can be extremely flammable/combustible and dangerous to our efforts.
With vehicles inside the garage, we must be mindful of vehicle storage systems that may be found within the garage. These sys-
tems allow for multiple vehicles to be stored in a vertical fashion using hydraulic/electric lifts. A double car garage can accommodate four vehicles stacked two high in each bay.
The area above the garage on the inside is also used for storage by many homeowners. This open area will vary in width and height based upon the style of the garage, but it will be packed with stored items. The weight limit of these open areas are limited and it seems that many homeowners ignore these limits and cram a ton of weight above there. For all they know, it is designed for storage when in reality it is not. Lightweight truss construction is what makes up these structural supports and they do not provide that much
strength on the bottom chord.
In Photo 1, you will see the fall out of weakened truss supports under a high heat source and weighed down above by heavy objects: the trusses fail, dumping the contents on the garage floor. In Photo 2, you will see another garage with heavy storage above the garage floor. Just think of the collapse potential that exists, and when it does, who it is trapping and injuring underneath it.
We have considered the exposed storage areas, but what about the ones that we cannot see? Consider false ceilings in a garage with an attic hatch opening somewhere allowing access into the attic area of the garage. This area is going to be a storage facility containing
PHOTOS BY MARK VAN DER FEYST
Photo 1: Heavily weighted truss supports will weaken and collapse under high heat
the same issues as with the exposed ones. The difference is that we cannot see this until it is to late.
The contents stored inside a garage can be anything. From various cleaning supplies, fuels, ammunition, chemicals, paints, solvents, Mig/Tig welders, oxy-acetylene welders, arc welders, etc. The types of content are limitless. In Photo 3, you will see an example of this but with the entire garage being used as a storage unit. Notice the high piling of some of the storage bins which coincidently go all the way to the back of the garage.
We must also take into consideration utilities that will be present. Some homeowners will have gas fed heating systems, or electrical or propane fed heating systems. Others may have wood fired heating systems inside. Besides the fuel source being the hazard, the units themselves hanging from the ceiling are HVAC units that do weigh considerably.
Some homeowners will convert their garage or purpose build it to have a recessed pit for automobile working purposes – a giant hole
in the middle of the garage! There will also be entanglement hazards found within the garage with Christmas lights being stored, wires, decorations and so on. The garage door opener is also a hazard in that if not controlled or locked out, it may close trapping firefighters inside.
What has been detailed here is generic approach to what may be found inside a garage. As you respond to calls within your district, take a look at what’s inside peoples garages when they have the doors open and you will be surprised at what you will see. Be prepared to expect the worst with a garage fire based upon what may be inside of it.
Mark van der Feyst has been in the fire service since 1999 and is currently a firefighter with the FGFD. Mark is an international instructor teaching in Canada, U.S. FDIC and India. He is the lead author of Fire Engineering’s Residential Fire Rescue & Tactical Firefighter books. Contact him at Mark@FireStarTraining.com.
Standard Folding Frame Tanks are easy to set up, store, and transport, especially with our “Easy lift handles” and “Quick Release Drain Tube” options (US Patent no. 8,746,478 and US Patent 10,518,967).
Photo 2: Consider the collapse potential of items storied above the garage floor, and who could be injured or trapped beneath it.
Photo 3: Sometimes the entire garage is used as a storage unit.
Digitizing data, reducing risk
Georgina marks an Ontario first with its innovative community risk dashboard
By LAURA AIKEN
This image shows the new dashboard with the fire department’s 2023 stats after implementing the new software application to all the front run trucks.
Georgina Fire and Rescue Service introduced an Ontario first through the creation of a live data risk reduction portal for their community. The ability to track risks in real time, and target messaging for its community and fire partners, is part of the fire department’s completed community risk assessment and risk reduction plan. This plan has traditionally been done on paper and required an annual review. With live data, the community assessment is viewed daily, elimi-
nating the need for annual reviews. Georgina’s portal was unveiled to the community on March 1. Data is dynamic, and this live portal gives realtime, meaningful information about the region it serves.
Deputy Chief Lorianne Zwicker spearheaded and worked alongside their GIS analytics team, in-house staff and corporate communications personnel on the technology. The apps were created entirely in house and built on ESRI and ArcGIS platforms. Multiple apps work to pull the data into one coherent picture. Zwicker learned
coding by spending hundreds of hours on YouTube University. The leading-edge technology, which the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed exceeds the requirements of provincial legislation, had a hard cost of only $58.41.
The Ontario Regulation O.Reg 378/18 regarding community risk assessments was announced by the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM) in 2019 and is to be completed by all municipalities in Ontario by 2024.
HOW THE PORTAL WORKS
The department spent eight months analyzing data to create the base portal, which divided the Town of Georgina into eight neighbourhood polygons so the community can be assessed at a town and granular level. The fire service decided to use neighbourhood polygons instead of response zones with the aim of improving community engagement and buy-in. Each of the department’s eight captains were then assigned a neighbourhood as the community risk lead, who is then provided with an
The live portal gives key indicators insights to assist with community engagement programs.
The application is installed on the tablets in all front run trucks.
The risk reduction plan was built on the nine pillars advised by the OFM — geographic profile, building stock, critical infrastructure, demographics, hazard profile, public safety response, community services, economic profile and past loss and event history. This portal provides the data of these pillars at the user’s hover of a mouse. The risk assessment examines population, households, education, employment, workforce, languages, and household income. Key indicators provide details such as age demographics, immigration generations, housing built by year and spending profiles. Employment and commuting data further help support targeted messaging.
The portal allows the department to compare fire and loss statistics with the rest of Ontario, see an interactive overview of incident responses, view call data, and determine trends through heat mapping that highlight the categories of medical, hazards, open air burns, rescues, fires, multi-vehicle collisions and pre-fire conditions. Community
The dashboard has already provided the fire department with many key insights. While the top causes of fire for the Town of Georgina from 2019 to 2022 were electrical, cooking and smoking, a community focus showed differences in leading causes, and many did not mirror one another. The key indicators are used to allow for messaging tailored to the specific neighbourhood’s needs. For example, the fire department can see how many seniors are in the neighbourhood, what percentage of the overall town population that is, how many over the age of 65 live alone, and how many households live under a $20,000 a year income. The fire department can also see the top three languages spoken and the top three fire risks.
In addition to basic data gathered, the portal uses the 67 Lifestyle types of PRIZM Segmentation System to detail the diversity of the population in terms of how people think, shop, use the internet/social and where they eat to better tailor the mediums used to deliver messaging that is tailor-timed method-tuned to best reach its audience. The fire department has completed its high risk and critical infrastructure assessments, with that information now being live as well.
RISK REDUCTION PLAN
The fire department built their public education and community engagement plan for 2023 based on risk assessment data from 2019 through 2022. This is their risk reduction plan, which outlines programs for platforms like social media and the website, school programs, home safe program and online self-inspection tool, year-round messaging through community partners and other tools such as Emergency Preparedness Week and Fire Prevention Week.
The risk reduction dashboard is populated via numerous data engines, but the user only needs to enter the data into one platform. Fire crews use a QR code that needs to be scanned once on their tablet on the truck to log their public safety activities in the portal so the effectiveness of their efforts can be quantified.
In considering the ample projected population growth, the fire department is also using the portal to create a building hazard analysis of all building stock. The risk matrix for all buildings is now complete and live. With summer coming, the priority area to focus on was the community’s marina’s and its 1447 slips.
“We have had devastating fires at these facilities and an inspection program and fire education program has been created to meet the risks,” shared Zwicker.
COMMUNITY ACCESS AND MORE
The community risk portal is now available to all the residents of Georgina. The interactive map allows the residents to learn about the top three risks specific to their community and also Georgina-wide. The community risk portal also expands on what other services are available through community partners, such as services for homelessness and other critical supports. An Emergency Management Portal, also now live, includes a weather tracker, links for planning for emergencies and a snowplow tracker. A link to the York Regional Police Community Safety Dashboard focuses on safety information, with particular attention to road safety, and tips for seniors and youths.
Zwicker and her collaborators have shown that ingenuity doesn’t have to cost a lot. The willingness to work hard and innovate can lead to a truly unique tool for supporting not only the fire department’s efforts to keep the community safe, but for empowering residents to see their risks for themselves and take action.
Drivers…don’t start your engines!
Electric fire trucks and the future of transportation
By ROB ANSELMI, TORONTO FIRE SERVICES
Electric vehicles are the clean future of transportation, or their very production is dirtier than the emissions they’re designed to eliminate…who do you believe? Well, I’m a “booster tank is half full” type of person, so I choose to follow the technology and believe everything we do gets us one step closer to cleaning up the services we provide.
History shows when we transitioned from gasoline to diesel engines in fire trucks, neither were clean. Diesel technology steadily improved until the present, where we have remarkably few emissions, but it came at the expense of high-priced componentry whose function requires burning extra fuel at high RPM for long periods to burn contaminants from the exhaust system. These systems, while effective in highway trucks, pose operational challenges in the fire service context.
Idle reduction technology (IRT) went a long way to improving the situation. The most efficient way to make any internal combustion engine cleaner is to shut it off, period. The first IRT step was to utilize small diesel-powered units that ran everything on the truck (except for the fire pump or aerial device) and shut the main engine down, eliminating all the carbon build-up and subsequent system regeneration caused by idling. I undertook a calculation, comparing aerial apparatus without IRT to identical units with the diesel IRT units, which showed a fuel consumption reduction of a minimum of eight per cent per year, and subsequent carbon emission reduction.
The current industry trend is moving from diesel powered IRT to lithium-ion battery systems that create no emissions or noise at all. In a vocation where so much of the in-service time of a truck is spent idling, not pumping water, and not using the aerial device, you could argue this is enough and stop there, but technology allows us to do so much more now.
Working from the station out, the immediate savings of electric fire apparatus is the elimination of station mounted exhaust extraction systems and all the safety issues, space requirements, repair costs, exterior distribution of the fumes, and the noise associated with direct capture systems. You can now enter and exit the hall without creating emissions, soot, and significant noise, making the entire process safer.
One of the most common maintenance expenses for fire apparatus is the repair and replacement of air brake components. In a busy urban centre, you may get a year out of the rear brake components on a standard pumper truck. The regenerative braking feature of the electric drive motor(s) means deceleration power can be returned to the batteries reducing heat and wear on the brake components. If your fire hall is at the top of a downgrade and you know you’ll need regenerative braking immediately, the system can proactively program the batteries to charge below 100 per cent when plugged in, so you will have “space” in the
The City of Toronto has mandated a net-zero emissions policy be in effect by 2040, including a tracking process to ensure success. This requires 20 per cent of the fleet to be zero emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2025 and 50 per cent by 2030.
batteries to accept the additional charge and gain the braking advantage. Electric motors have the unique ability to achieve 100 per cent torque (the twisting force transmitted to the drivetrain) upon activation, eliminating the acceleration delay felt as a diesel engine attains RPM, so there is little concern of drivability issues.
Anyone who’s been in a full electric or hybrid electric car will remark about the lack of noise, as it’s an unnatural feeling at first. Electric trucks
are no different, and possibly more unnatural feeling because you’re used to the noise of a heavy truck. The NFPA rates the maximum allowable Db rating inside the cab of a fire truck, but it’s still significant, even with the cab windows closed. These electric trucks are silent unless the diesel extender system activates, and even then, what you have is a set-speed generator running, using a much smaller diesel engine than would normally be found under the hood.
Imagine a fire scene with several electric trucks supplying the suppression water or responding to an accident. Suddenly you have crews that can communicate better, and the public we serve, who are in the process of having the worst day of their life, feeling less distressed. The sequencing of the on-scene emergency lighting takes it one step further, but that’s a topic on its own.
So, how much of the operation can we anticipate being full electric versus the diesel running? A study for the run area of Toronto Fire Services pumper 332, located in the busiest fire hall in Toronto, found that after 15 runs in a 24-hour period and plugged in when back in station, the truck would operate in full electric mode well over 90 per cent of the time. When you couple that statistic with the anticipated performance of pumping from draft (not a common occurrence in the urban setting) for two and a half hours at capacity, which could translate to three or three and a half hours from a hydrant, it’s anticipated the truck will operate in full electric mode so often that there is a concern that the small diesel engine may not run frequently enough and will therefore require a program timer to exercise the engine.
There are endless publications from chemical engineers, process managers, environmentalists, manufacturers, news reporters, and everyone else that has an interest or opinion regarding the feasibility of electric cars and trucks. All I can advise is to form your own opinion, and consider the following:
• A large percentage of the stored electric battery power is delivered directly to the driveline, with no waste.
• In comparison, a significant amount of the energy in burned fossil fuel (diesel or gasoline) is lost to heat, never used or delivered to the driveline.
• 92 per cent of electricity in Ontario is produced from zero-carbon sources.
I’m proud to work for a city that values the environment and understands the need for large municipalities to lead the development of technologies that will reduce our carbon footprint and improve safety.
Toronto’s Sustainable City Fleets Plan was developed in order to identify any area of the corporate fleet that could be made cleaner through various technologies.
The City of Toronto has mandated a net-zero emissions policy be in effect by 2040, including a tracking process to ensure success. This requires 20 per cent of the fleet to be zero emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2025 and 50 per cent by 2030. It also mandates a 45 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2025 and 65 per cent by 2030. These requirements are outlined in the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy aiming to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Toronto to net zero by 2040.
Toronto Fire Services has two NFPA-compliant, fully electric, North American style pumper trucks on order, which will enable us to pilot this technology in the busiest and most complex urban environment in Canada. Likewise, we are also in the process of replacing gasoline-powered district chief response vehicles with hybrid vehicles. Moving forward, all emergency response light passenger vehicles will be hybrid
wherever possible and all non-emergency response light passenger vehicles will be electric vehicles wherever possible.
There are certainly challenges ahead with the supply of the materials required to make electric vehicle (EV) batteries, overall supply chain issues, local power grid issues, build times, the cost of electric apparatus versus conventional, and modifications required to fire halls, but these issues can be overcome with cooperation, time, and persistence.
Fire services are also working to develop the procedures and technologies required to combat fires and accidents involving EV batteries and electric vehicles, and this issue will continue to be a top priority across North America.
The automotive foray into electric vehicles is well ahead of the fire market and has essentially made autonomous vehicles a reality. I firmly believe this change across the automotive industry is made in the interest of the environment, a reduction to the overall number of components required to build a car or truck, a reduction in the number of skilled technicians repairing vehicles, and the overall improvement in the quality of componentry available to build vehicles. Fire apparatus moving into the EV realm is simply a natural progression, and as battery technology evolves, I’m not sure we’re that far away from fully electric fire apparatus, without the requirement for a range extender diesel engine, at least in urban environments.
Rob Anselmi is the division chief, equipment and asset management, for Toronto Fire Services. He achieved Master EVT level and is responsible for the design, procurement, and acceptance of all vehicles and most equipment purchased by TFS.
An eye-opener of a night
By ED BROUWER
In early 2019 I prepared a practice night that I thought would drastically change how we did things in our department. I had no idea how on point this training would be looking back through the fog of the pandemic years. It was one of those shock and awe lessons that left firefighters standing jaws agape asking, “what just happened?” At the time, the chief was calling for an immediate overhaul of our health and safety guidelines. I was thrilled, to say the least. However, looking back I’m not sure it left any kind of lasting impact other than a few hand sanitizer stations being set up. This doesn’t mean it wasn’t worthwhile.
For this practice night, I successfully demonstrated the process of cross-contamination from the fire incident to our bunker gear. And from our bunker gear to our apparatus and tools and equipment. Then from there to the fire hall and our personnel. Then to our personal vehicles… and then even to contaminants being brought into the homes of our members.
I could have used a video or PowerPoint slides to demonstrate my point, however, I felt it important for our members to actually experience this for themselves. I wanted the “shock value” of this self-discovery. But the shock and awe was soon forgotten.
To be fair we did not really get into the “after the fire” decontamination processes, but we did mention showering, routine cleaning of gear, bagging gear before transport, and using wipes on scene. These things are addressed in the Invisible Danger video and the New Badge of Honour video. There is even a section on Bunker Gear Transfer.
Your members have the right to know any and all information regarding firefighter cancer risks.
I was sure that after our practice we would have been able to address our slack attitude toward “after the fire” decontamination. But it was shortly after that I retired and then the pandemic hit.
I hope you will have better success than I did. It is one of my deep regrets that I was unable to see this through. It is well documented that firefighters are at increased risk of developing certain cancers, including respiratory, urinary/reproductive system and mesothelioma amongst many others.
In 2010, researchers from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), launched a multi-year study to examine whether firefighters have a higher risk of cancer and other causes of death due to job exposures. It was estimated that firefighter lifetime cancer risk is about 14 per cent greater than the general public. The chances of getting lung cancer and leukemia were seen to increase with fire runs and amount of time spent at fires.
There is considerable information regarding this invisible danger via Youtube videos, PowerPoint presentations and research articles. I encourage you to do your own research.
I realize I have shared this once before, however, it is worth you giving this a second look. I’ve included a simple but powerful “hands on” way to
I ordered a UV theft detection powder and UV LED flashlight combo kit online to set up a practice night that would demonstrate the full extent of cross-contamination on scene.
prepare your members for this information that should result in a change of attitude regarding contamination transfer.
HOW TO RUN THE SCENARIO
If you can pull this off at a practice night and follow up with the aforementioned videos or PowerPoints, I am sure you will get your points across, even if your department is slack in this area.
The cost to your training budget will be around $60, a bargain to be sure if just even one member discovers how easy it is to spread the contaminates we pick up at calls.
I ordered a UV theft detection powder and UV LED flashlight combo kit online and received it within a week. At the time, with shipping, it
TRAINER’SCORNER
worked out to $56.42.
This powder glows bright blue only under UV black light and is otherwise invisible. The trick is to lightly dust with the powder. I used a bit too much at first.
I did not let anyone know what my real goals were for this practice. As far as they were concerned, we were doing a room search scenario. I used three small traffic cones as “bodies”. With a permanent marker, I numbered the cones one, two and three. Then using a make-up brush I covered each with a light dusting of the powder and hid the cones in various places in our fire hall.
Once the members had donned their bunker gear, they were divided into two teams (to promote competition). Competition can create adrenaline, which helps bring a bit of realism.
Each team was assigned an IC, and they chose members to be in SCBA (breathing air). Let me say we never, ever just go in with a mixed team of BA wearing and non-BA wearing members, however, we did make an exception in this case. Not sure about your department dynamics, but we have members who will never go into a building wearing BA (due to age or health). For this exercise, I wanted everyone to experience the contamination transfer.
I wrote the numbers one to three on pieces of paper and had each IC choose one. They did not tell their team what number to look for. Each
team was told to find one cone and then notify their IC.
Both teams went in at the same time. In our case, one team went upstairs to the second level and the other did a left-hand search on the main floor.
Again, this really wasn’t about the “room search”, however we had them follow our department’s SOGs. When a cone was discovered it was passed from one team member to another. Once the cone was safely in the hands of the last member, they notified the IC, who then asked them to check the number. If it was the right cone, he told them to exit the building with it. If it was not the right number, they were instructed to put the cone back where they had found it (a lot of extra handling but I wanted everyone to pick up something).
When both teams retrieved their assigned cones, we debriefed the “room searches” and engaged in a Q&A period. The members still had no idea about the real reason behind this practice. I did this so that they would not behave any different before, during or after this practice scenario.
The practice as far as they were concerned was over, so they doffed their gear and brought the apparatus back in (we had moved all our apparatus out of the bays before starting the room search scenario). When we were “supposedly” all cleaned up and ready to go home I called for everyone’s attention. I informed them that this practice was in fact about contamination transfer.
I explained how the invisible powder was placed on the three cones. Then we turned off the lights in the hall and my assistant trainer and I, each armed with UV flashlights, began to shine on the gear hanging up in the lockers. There were audible exclamations of surprise as gloves, helmets, and bunker gear glowed blue. When we retraced some of the search patterns, we discovered powder on the key pad for the hall door, the training room door knob and on various objects in the hall.
It was even more of an eye opener when the UV lights lit up the powder on Engine 1’s steering wheel, door handles and BA packs. Then one member gasped as they discovered powder on their hands. This caused a bit of a stir. We had their attention to be sure.
This brought out a verbal commitment from all our members to become vigilant in the decontamination process. We talked about the danger of bringing gear home or even keeping bunker gear bags in personal vehicles, as is the case for some volunteers. We spoke about the danger of transferring contaminants to our personal vehicles and then having our spouse use the vehicle to take the kids to school or get groceries.
Like I said earlier, this practice led to our department immediately instituting new rules regarding cross contamination. One such rule was no more bunker gear in the training room. They also decided to order first responder coveralls that will be kept in individual bags in the medical room. The chief said no more wearing of bunker gear or multi-purpose
coveralls to first response medical calls (sadly that did not happen while I was still there)
This was an eye-opening practice. I was so sure there would be many changes — good changes — to our SOGs regarding cross contamination. Although I am somewhat disappointed as to outcome of this practice it is important to recognize we do not always have the ability or opportunity to implement all the lessons we work so hard at presenting. I encourage you to keep on doing your best. Don’t give up or give in. Training certainly seemed easier a decade or so ago when we concentrated on putting the wet stuff on the red stuff. However, with a greater awareness of PTSD, the recent opioid crisis, and the pandemic, the importance and scope of the fire service training officer has grown exponentially. I encourage you to just keep on keeping on…keep doing your best whether you see the results or not.
Our part in saving lives begins at the fire hall, with our members. Thank you for all you do in the fire service. I am proud to be named among you. Until next issue, 4-9-4 Ed Brouwer.
Ed Brouwer is the chief instructor for Canwest Fire in Osoyoos, B.C., retired deputy chief training officer for Greenwood Fire and Rescue, a fire warden, wildland urban interface fire-suppression instructor and ordained disaster-response chaplain. Contact aka-opa@hotmail.com.
Finding the right type of therapy
Defining and understanding which title offers what in the world of mental health
By NICK HALMASY, REGISTERED PSYCHOTHERAPIST
What are the types of things that you look for when ordering new equipment? Function, form, cost, and need may be some of those factors. With a new truck, should it be a crew cab or not? The list of wants versus needs versus input could be endless and unhelpful to use as an overall strategy. Some of us spend exorbitant amounts of time researching unimportant things (like how much time I spent researching what phone to buy the last time I needed to replace mine).
Decision making can be difficult and complex. Identifying the right fit for therapy could more challenging if I also enter in the factors of urgency and pressure, like if I’m in immediate crisis and/or I have a pressure from loved ones to seek support. Where do you go to find that help? Well, there’s another potentially lengthy list. Let’s look at some ways to try and make this process a little easier, from understanding the terminology to navigating some key sites, and lastly help with some thoughts around how to make the decision that fits your needs.
What has been clear to me since doing this work is that the terminol-
ogy, lovingly described as psychobabble in the world of mental health practitioners and a language that I take for granted, is confusing for others. Let’s try and clear some of that up.
THE TERMS
There is a difference between psychotherapy and counselling that has more impact than meets the eye. Despite often being used interchangeably, psychotherapy is a protected act. This means that while anyone can label themselves as a counsellor, the psychotherapist title is held only by those with a combination of education and experience that meets the criteria for either the College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO) or the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). These colleges are the regulatory bodies for those workers and those workers have professional titles of either registered psychotherapist (RP) or registered social worker (RSW). One small piece to add is that unlike the RSW designation, which can be obtained following a person’s education, the RP will require ongoing supervision under a clinician with five years of experience or more for
There are only two practitioners that can provide you with a medically meaningful (and legally permissible) diagnosis, a psychologist and a psychiatrist.
a time. This means that you may see their designation as (RP-Q), registered psychotherapist (Q), or registered psychotherapist qualifying. This person is still able to conduct therapy, but they are signalling to clients that they have not yet demonstrated and provided the hours of therapy and supervision to be able to practice independently.
There is another tier of note that often causes some confusion: psychologist and psychiatrist. A psychologist is a doctorate level practitioner who is a member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). The main differences between a psychologist and a RSW or a RP is that they can conduct extensive assessments and provide a diagnosis. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in mental health medicine. These doctors, on top of providing you with a diagnosis, are able to prescribe medication. They are the only practitioners within mental health specifically that can do this. Typically, at least in Ontario, a psychiatrist is someone who you may be referred to for a single session assessment and they may then provide your main medical professional (doctor, nurse) guidance on prescribing medications as well as clarifying any diagnosis your practitioners may have sought. They are most often associated with a hospital or outpatient setting. Though psychiatrists could practice privately, it is not often you find this.
This means there are only two practitioners that can provide you with a medically meaningful (and legally permissible) diagnosis: a psychologist and a psychiatrist. If you require support through an agency – such as WSIB in Ontario – you will require a diagnosis from one of these practitioners. You cannot get a diagnosis from a social worker or a registered psychotherapist. I have had many people over the years reach out and ask if I can give them such a diagnosis as a registered
psychotherapist. I have heard many people say, well, my therapist diagnosed me with PTSD or depression. RSWs and RPs can conduct some assessments, but these are not tools that can give you a formal diagnosis. In my own practice, I am clear about this, adding that we can “lean strongly in a direction” based on symptom review and assessments within my scope. But, as I also inform clients, I cannot and will not be giving any diagnosis. Unfortunately, there are some in my field who feel confident providing a clear “diagnosis” to a client, but are clearly acting out of scope. Be informed and recognize that they are providing you with their “best guess” and that this is not to be taken as a diagnosis. There is so much more to say about these titles and the roles, but the most important piece that you should look for when seeking support are that the individuals that have those titles are in good standing with those colleges. All colleges have a database of individuals and will show their standing.
WE KNOW THEIR TITLES… NOW WHAT DO THEY DO?
The “what” a therapist does is a large grey area that is difficult to encapsulate in a single article. When I speak with other clinicians and students, I like to remind them that therapy is both a science and an art, meaning that there is a lot of research to back many of the approaches that we use. The way to present this idea and work with it in a session is the art of it all. Nailing down the “what” might be a bit nebulous, so we’ll stick to big picture items, starting with modalities.
A modality is the filter with which a therapist will view a client’s problem presentation. I’m trained and certified in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for many different disorders, and I typically see my
client’s experiences through the lens of that modality. This means that I share with them the language and outlook of this approach, which includes teaching about how their mind works, the different systems present and at play, and the importance of emotional experiences on thought formation and behavioural expressions. Then, through sharing, exploring, informing, and experimenting, the client grows to learn and understand things about themselves, others, and the world that they may have previously overlooked or discounted. This is just one modality in a very long list that a therapist can work from. Let’s explore some so you have a bit of an idea of the major approaches being used with firefighters.
Aside from CBT, there is also:
Cognitive process therapy (CPT): This is a derivative of the CBT model but was designed specifically for the treatment of PTSD and trauma. CPT takes the view that traumatic experiences result in significant altering of the way we view ourselves, others, and the world. Through those experiences we either overprotect (overcompensate, become hypervigilant, get closed off, etc.) or under protect (ignore impacts, reason away causes and ignore ways to further protect). CPT helps to make sense of those experiences and challenge us to normalize and make meaning from them so we land in a place where the trauma no longer has this overprotective or under protective reaction in us. In the end, we hope that someone has accommodated the experience in a way that makes sense but is free from the reactions mentioned above that get in the way of living.
Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT): This modality was created by Marsha Linehan, who noticed that the CBT model for a certain subsection of her clients wasn’t helping with some of the major issues that she was see-
•
A SNAPSHOT OF TITLES, SERVICES AND AFFILIATIONS IN ONTARIO
Registered Psychotherapist (RP)
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
Psychologist (PhD, Psy.D)
Psychiatrist (MD)
Provide limited assessments (to support therapy) and provide psychotherapy
Provide limited assessments (to support therapy) and provide psychotherapy
College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO)
Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
Provide extensive and thorough assessments, provide psychotherapy, provide diagnosis College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO)
Provide assessments, provide diagnosis, and prescribe medications
ing. She created a model that took some of the fundamental understandings of CBT and added and modified pieces to make them more appropriate for these presentations. This resulted is a modality that looks at four main components: emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): This approach is much newer in its use but has found to be of some benefit when it comes to managing trauma symptoms. The idea is that through the use of bilateral eye movements (or more recently bilateral stimulation with vibrating paddles, for example) while processing the trauma memory itself has helped people greatly in the reprocessing of traumatic experiences. While it has a developing research base on its utility, I’ve experienced quite a few vocal voices discussing it as if it were a “cure” for trauma. I caution against this view. It’s a tool, and like all tools, may not work for you.
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CSPO)
Bio/neurofeedback training : This approach is about understanding the physical ways that mental health can manifest. Through training with this modality, we grow to understand better the way our body will react to stressful situations, and by how actively relaxing or focusing on the breath, we are able to restabilize the physical body, which in turn helps to restabilize our mental health experiences. There are a lot of different ways biofeedback is used (I use heart-rate variability in my own practices) but there are others like breathing, focusing on muscle contraction and release, and sweat that help give immediate feedback to what is happening.
Neurofeedback training is the reading of certain brainwaves that have been identified as important and relevant when looking at arousal and under arousal states. After identifying problematic waves (usually through a short screening called a “mind-map”), the clinician will then work with training the brain through
specific training protocols that inhibit certain wave expressions and reward others. This takes place in a few different ways, sometimes through sounds and music, others through games, that progress when your brain falls into the “right” brain wave levels. Clinicians that you see will likely use rather expensive but intensive programs and machines, but there are some entry-level devices that you can get that do related things. The MUSE device is one.
There are so many other modalities that a therapist can use, such as internal family systems, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy and so on. But nothing grinds my professional gears more than hopping over to Psychology Today, one of the most used sites in searching for a therapist, and reading about a therapist that says they conduct every modality they can spell and treat every diagnosis you can get. It’s frustrating, and here’s why. Just one certification in CBT for the treatment of anxiety disorders is 72 hours. That’s almost two weeks of eight-hour days. That’s a significant amount of time training, to mention nothing of the cost associated. That’s for one small subset of diagnosis from one small range of possible approaches. I randomly pulled a therapist that identified 19 areas of speciality and 12 different modality approaches! Imagine that each training is equivalent (it’s not always) — that’s 864 hours of training! Sure, it’s possible. But given the cost associated with each of those courses measured over the amount of hours, that’s a significant amount of both time and money that one person would have to commit to becoming certified in all those modalities. One last metric is practice length (identified by their college’s registration) and we can see that it is highly unlikely that one has certifications in all those areas.
And that’s the point.
When you are scanning through a registry like this it is vital to remember that they are not disclosing one’s certification in these areas. Simply, they are indicating that they may know a tool or two that comes from that modality and maybe even only occasionally use it. That’s different than saying they are certified in a modality. Because the truth is that you don’t need any certifications in particular modalities to offer therapy. Full stop. Once registered with a college you’ve achieved the minimum required to practice.
We’ve explored the terms and some of the modalities. What do you do with all this information?
The most crucial piece of advice I can give
is that you need to start this process well in advance of desperately needing it. When you are struggling to the point where a crisis is at hand, wading through all the necessary things to find a therapist is excruciating slow. There are many barriers, including costs and finding out insurance information. If you become involved with WSIB, that means you’ll also need to add to this journey by finding a WSIB approved psychologist to review your claim and then, if approved, find a WSIB approved therapist to support you. This means, sometimes, switching from a therapist that you
have found to another one you may not know. This may be less than ideal for you. Start at the first inkling that your mental health needs attention and keep these basic summaries of roles and what they can provide in mind.
Nick Halmasy is a firefighter with Selwyn Fire Department and a registered psychotherapist who has spent a decade with the fire service. He is the founder of After the Call, an organization that provides first responders with mental health information. Contact him at nhalmasy@afterthecall.org.
REVISITING THE 72-HOUR RULE
Preparing your communities for the unexpected
By KAITLIN SECORD
In emergency management, it’s important to know where initiatives originated and that they they are still current as a directive. Some, like the 72-hour rule, emerged a long time ago and may not fully meet the needs of all communities today.
The 72-hour preparedness rule came to fruition during World War I as a federal government directive. There were requirements to be self-sufficient due to competing priorities from national defence. Individuals were expected to sustain their own continuity of livelihood and quality of life for 72-hours.
Chris Collins, professor of emergency management at the Emergency Management and Public Safety Institute of Centennial College and level 3 trainer with Emergency Management Ontario, said, “We are still
using a method of preparedness from war-times, but have advanced as a society in every other way. So, what’s wrong with this picture?”
Public Safety Canada released a report in June 2010 called the “Emergency Preparedness Week 2010 Evaluation” which saw Phoenix Strategic Perspectives, a market researcher from Ottawa, conduct a survey among Canadian residents to “explore issues related to Emergency Preparedness Week.”
The results showed that 72 per cent of those surveyed strongly agreed that an emergency plan and kit are necessary to ensure the safety of their family. It also found that 54 per cent assumed their area would not likely be affected by disaster and 48 per cent thought if disaster did strike, it would be over soon. Forty-four percent felt the govern-
ment would take care of them if a large-scale emergency were to occur.
Fifty-eight per cent said their family had never looked into what to do in case of an emergency, 60 per cent said they hadn’t purchased or prepared an emergency kit and about one-third said they felt they did not need one.
Since 2010, demographics, geographics and population have changed significantly across Canada.
“An increase in immigration and a rise in natural disasters, construction and inflation have all led to changes in budgets, municipalities and individual needs,” said Collins. “It, therefore, makes no sense that we are still considering emergency preparedness as side-of-the-desk work.”
Support from government agencies is different among rural, suburban and urban areas, and so are their needs. “This is why 72 hours cannot be something that is universally applicable,” said Collins. “Emergency services are closer and more available in urban cities whereas in rural regions it can take three days to get to somewhere at times.”
So, what can be done? Look to your community, municipality and even the specific neighbourhoods you serve, said Scott Cameron, co-founder of Emergency Management Logistics Canada.
“No one can prepare a community better than members of that same community,”
Many regions are transitioning away from a generic approach by incorporating tools that are unique to them.
FireSmart Canada and B.C. FireSmart have launched two unique initiatives that directly help communities support themselves. The
Local FireSmart Representatives program is described as “people from all walks of life, unified by a central purpose: “to mitigate the damages caused by wildfires to our neighbourhoods and communities.” These representatives are your neighbours, community leaders and fire professionals that “foster FireSmart values at a grassroots level.”
Collins was a local FireSmart representative during his time living in B.C. “The program provides risk assessment on an individual level. We’d look at things like trees in someone’s front lawn and the impact that has on the wilderness-urban interface,” said Collins.
The other initiative is the FireSmart Canada Neighbourhood Recognition Program (FCNRP). This program recognizes neighbourhoods “that have taken critical steps to reduce their vulnerabilities to wildfires.”
The program hits on a couple of areas of preparedness that are often weak within province-wide planning. First, they use local FireSmart representatives to create a plan that identifies locally agreed-upon solutions and goals that are attainable for each neighbourhood to achieve.
These goals and solutions are tracked by progress or status and are used to create “dedicated local FireSmart programs.” The FCNRP also sees investment opportunities of $2 per capita annually in local neighbourhoods.
“People like to be recognized and self-sufficient,” Collins said. “By helping our neighbours develop FireSmart tools, and showing them that we see their efforts, we’re setting everyone up for greater success.”
The FireSmart initiatives are one example of provinces taking charge
of preparedness, and it is exemplary in considering the geography and demographics of each community in its approach.
Ontario released its first-ever Provincial Emergency Management Strategy and Action Plan this year. The plan sets a general foundation for emergency management across the province. While its “one win dow for all Ontarians” approach seeks to coordinate with emergency management partners on preparedness and information sharing, it may not directly consider that the time and need for emergency response in Timmins, Ont., varies greatly from what is needed in Toronto.
The Alberta Emergency Management Agency works in a similar function by coordinating agencies for emergency operations.
These coordination plans, while obviously important, unfortunately don’t create enough “buy-in,” said Collins.
He explained that the most effective way to engage someone is by connecting with their emotions. “You only have about three seconds to grab someone’s attention through an advertisement or flyer, but sto rytelling lets people put themselves into situations. It lets them think about their reactions and realities and has proven to be a very effective way to communicate with communities.”
A study called “Interventions for Preventing Residential Fires in Vulnerable Neighbourhoods and Indigenous Communities: A Systematic Review of the Evidence”, showed that partnerships with Indigenous communities and education through tailored, culturally appropriate programming saw improvements in engagement with targeted populations.
One of the most common findings for areas of improvement is communication.
“We often emphasize public education, but I think emergency ser vices need to start sharing their initiatives more often,” said Collins. “There’s no need for these techniques and programs to be secretive. Our goal as emergency personnel is to help our communities stay safe; by sharing what we’re doing, we can learn, re-evaluate, grow and devel op at an even more impressive rate than we are now.”
“The language used when it comes to emergency preparedness is a good place to start,” said Cameron. “Traction gained in public aware ness could be lost or contribute to confusion about standards if it were to be changed. With any public messaging, the headlines need to be backed up with context.”
While 72-hours may not be enough time for all communities to use as a rule of prepardness, its marketability and memorability are two things that make the concept attractive. “The greater value of the 72-hour preparedness movement has been the awareness generated within the public realm,” said Cameron.
The 2010 Emergency Preparedness Week study by Public Safety Canada found that greater than 70 per cent of participants understood what 72-hour referred to.
Provinces and territories are updating the language they use when it comes to preparedness. Most suggest “a minimum of 72-hours”, while regions like Sidney, B.C., are encouraged to be prepared for seven days due to their remote location.
“Disasters are inevitable, but the scale and scope of damage can vary depending on mitigation strategies and preparedness,” said Cameron. Choosing what to communicate with the communities you serve and how you do it should no longer be based on a generalization. Shifting focus to how you can best prepare your communities for the unexpected will provide relief to everyone being impacted.
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
CANADA
BC (British Columbia)
AB (Alberta)
SK (Saskatchewan),
MB (Manitoba)
ON (Ontario)
QC (Quebec)
PE (Prince Edward Island),
NL (Newfoundland & Labrador)
NB (New Brunswick)
NS (Nova Scotia)
NT (Northwest Territories)
NU (Nunavut)
YT (Yukon)
1200 DEGREES ONTARIO
402 Harmony Road
Ayr ON N0B 1E0
Tel: 800-254-2049
Toll free: 800-254-2049
Fax: 519-622-7705
Web: www.1200-degrees.com
“1200˚ ONTARIO is your full service, specialized vehicle dealership. We have a complete line of solutions for your department from Apparatus sales, Equipment Sales to Parts and Service.
1200° ONTARIO offers exclusive premium brands and sets itself apart from others by offering the highest level of customer service in the industry today.
We take great pride in offering the very best care to our clients throughout the sales process and beyond. We provide expert advice during the buying process, from consultations, spec development to committee presentations and anything in between, our customers are presented with the highest quality products and our customer care is second to none. Working with 1200˚ means having a single point of contact for all your departments needs.
1200° will take care of everything for our clients so they can focus on what’s important…. Helping people.”
Serving ON
A.J. STONE COMPANY LTD.
62 Bradwick Dr. Vaughan ON L4K 1K8
Tel: 416-785-3752
Toll free: 800-205-3473
Fax: 416-781-2827
Web: www.ajstone.com
A.J. Stone has proudly served the needs of the First Responder Services of Ontario since 1972 by featuring quality products, knowledgeable sales team, and training support.
A.J. Stone supplies equipment from MSA, Task Force Tips, LION Protects, Paratech Rescue, FireBull, Enforcer, Genesis Rescue Systems, Streamlight, Innotex Bunker Gear, ProTech Gloves, Safe-T-System, CET and much more! We service what we sell!
Serving ON
AIR TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
CANADA INC.
251 Queen St. S., Ste. 512 Mississauga ON L5M 1L7
Tel: 905-826-6682
Toll free: 866-735-1480
Fax: 866-511-6904
Web: www.airmation.ca
Air Technology Solutions is dedicated to our Clients, offering updated, timely, full service Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) solutions. Air quality concerns are mitigated using a unique combination of professional indoor air quality assessment coupled with solutions. Off the shelf or customized site specific air cleaning equipment is available to resolve IAQ issues. Our technical experts review client requirements and budgetary availability. The finest appropriate air cleaning systems are provided. Air Technology Solutions is a leader in Diesel Exhaust Remediation and is the ONLY environmental tested and proven filtration system to exceed standards: NFPA, NIOSH, OSHA and ASHRAE. Building and facility managers, business owners, contractors, architects, and engineers have been working with Air Technology Solutions since 1986 to resolve IAQ needs. Employee and personnel safety and health are key issues. Breathing safe air in the workplace is of utmost importance. We provide global customized solutions to control contaminants, pollutants and odours in your facility. We look forward to servicing your requirements. Serving All of Canada
AKRON BRASS COMPANY
343 Venture Blvd.
Wooster OH 44691
Tel: 330-264-5678
Web: www.akronbrass.com
Akron Brass Company is a leading global manufacturer of high performance firefighting products engineered and tested for superior fire suppression and emergency response. Products include nozzles, monitors, valves, scene and vehicle lighting, vehicle electronics, reels, hand tools, engineered solutions, and other firefighting equipment. Leading the industry for over 95 years!
ARÉO-FEU
5205, J.-Armand Bombardier Longueuil QC J3Z 1G4
Tel: 450-651-2240
Toll free: 800-469-1963
Fax: 450-651-1970
Web: www.areo-feu.com/en Aréo-Feu – Where Equipment Matches Courage
For more than 55 years, three generations of knowledge have succeeded to make Aréo-Feu the number one reference for the supply and service of equipment in the fire industry, in public safety or in civil protection. Our favourable purchasing power allows us to maintain an important inventory of products that have state-of-the-art technology. Committed to building very good business relationships with our partners, we encourage the constant update and development of our team’s expertise. Our daily goal is the complete satisfaction of our customers! Multiple suppliers with whom we have a durable relationship for the benefit of our customers.
Official distributor of: MSA/Globe, Innotex, Rosenbauer, Protek, Elkhart Brass, Genesis Rescue Systems, Streamlight, Res-Q-Jack, Petzl, Husky, Solberg, TechTrade, Unifire, CET Fire pump, All American hose, OHD, Harrington Inc., LavXel, Kochek CO. Inc, Lakeland, Tohatsu, Waterous, ect.
Serving All of Canada
BEARSPAW PROTECTAPUMP
A-927 Goldstream Ave
Victoria British Columbia V9B 2Y2
Tel: 778-404-7385
Web: protectapump.com
Home of the BearsPaw SEPARATORS®. Our Patented Technology is Superior to Strainers’ & Provides SAFE Shallow Drafting in All Sources. Safe Pumping in Less Than a Foot of Water: Wetlands – Creeks – Lakes –Rivers – Oceans.
Eliminates RIsk of Sand/Gravel Damage No Flotation or Suspension No “Babysitting” Required Made in Canada – offers 100% Pump, Nozzle, & Sprinkler Protection. Satisfaction Guaranteed. Sounds unbelievable? Visit ProtectaPump.com and see Separators in action. Safe as a Dry Hydrant but PORTABLE.
Serving All of Canada
BULLARD
1898 Safety Way
Cynthiana KY 41031
Tel: 859-234-6616
Fax: 859-234-8987
Web: www.bullard.com
In Canada: Graeme Cross, Regional Sales Manager, Tel: (613) 229-7000, Toll Free: 1-859-234-6616, e-mail: Graeme_Cross@bullard.com, website: www.bullard.com.
Bullard Fire Helmets and Thermal Imagers have reliably protected Canadian Firefighters for decades. Bullard products are trusted for their toughness, lightweight designs, and advanced technology.
Top Bullard PPE: New! UST-LW Fire Helmet - The lightweight durability and customization options of the traditionally-styled USTLW make it one of the most comfortable fire helmets on the market.
New! TXS Thermal Imager - Your high deployment solution when budget, quality, and performance are essential. A thermal imager built with the toughness you expect from Bullard and exceptional image clarity you need to see to believe.
Talk to a Bullard expert or schedule a demo. To get started, contact Graeme Cross at Graeme_Cross@bullard.com, visit www.Bullard.com, or reach out to your local Bullard-authorized distributor. Serving All of Canada
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
BULLDOG HOSE COMPANY
141 Junny Road
Angier NC 27501
Tel: 416-436-4910
Web: www.bulldoghose.com
BullDog Hose Company, a division of Puck Enterprises, is proud to be a leading fire hose manufacturer in the North America. From Hi-Combat® II, Firepower® II, Hi-Vol®, Redchfief, and Ultima™, our dedication has positioned us as the premier in fire hose products.
The BullDog name stands for high performance, durability, safety and quality, with American-made products that are built to last.
Serving All of Canada
CANADIAN SAFETY EQUIPMENT INC.
#3 – 2865 Argentia Rd.
Mississauga ON L5N 8G6
Tel: 905-826-2740
Toll free: 800-265-0182
Fax: 905-272-1866
Web: http://www.cdnsafety.com
We supply Industrial and Fire SCBA’s, SCBA Decon Washer, Thermal Cameras, CAF Systems, Fall Protection, Bunker Gear, Fire and Rescue and Ballistic helmets, Fire Hose, Communications Equipment, Nozzles, Fittings, Hazmat Suits, Ventilation Fans, Gas Detectors, Confined Space Rescue Equipment, Water and Ice Rescue equipment, Industrial and Municipal Safety and Lone Worker Protection systems.
CET FIRE PUMPS MFG.
75 Hector St. Pierreville QC J0G 1J0
Tel: 450-568-2719
Toll free: 888-844-2285
Fax: 450-568-2613
Web: www.fire-pump.com
No Hydrants, No Problem!
CET Manufactures Portable Pumps, Skid Units, Brush Trucks, Glider Kits, Foam Trailers, Water Tanks, and UTV Fire Units to help you fight fire where static water sources may be your only option.
The Flow Starts Here!
Serving All of Canada
COMMAND LIGHT
3842 Redman Dr.
Fort Collins CO 80524
Tel: 970-297-7036
Web: www.commandlight.com
In an era of distracted drivers and demanding scenes, firefighters face many obstacles. Command Light offers tripods (NEW!), light towers, compact lighting, traffic flow boards and more. Towers are available in a variety of configurations, including AC/DC, different bases, varying outputs and different options, like backlighting to illuminate dual scenes.
Serving All of Canada
COMMERCIAL EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT CO.
591 Chester Road
Delta BC V3M 6G7
Tel: 877-443-2626
Toll free: 800-665-6126
Web: www.comemerg.ca
Commercial Emergency Equipment is Canada’s largest dealer for Pierce Manufacturing, MaxiMetal, BME Fire Trucks, Oshkosh Snow Products, and Oshkosh Airport Products. We provide sales, parts, and service for all makes of fire apparatus, and support our customers through our nationwide branch network.
Commercial Emergency Equipment Co. strives to exceed customer expectations in everything we deliver. With over 75 years in the truck equipment industry, we take pride in a proven track record of providing expert truck equipment solutions, top quality products, and first-class service to our customers.
We are a sole-source service provider with 24/7 mobile Emergency Vehicle Technicians, offering inspections, preventative maintenance, mobile pump testing, foam system calibration, aerial maintenance, as well as comprehensive apparatus training.
We warehouse an extensive inventory of OEM and aftermarket parts, tools, and equipment ensuring quick delivery and reduced downtime to our customers.
Serving AB|BC|MB|NT|NU|ON|SK|YT
CSE INCENDIE ET SÉCURITÉ INC.
5651 Chemin St-Francois
St. Laurent QC H4S 1W6
Tel: 514-737-2280
Toll free: 866-737-2280
DARLEY
325 Spring Lake Drive
Itasca IL 60143
Tel: 630-735-3500
Toll free: 800-323-0244
Web: www.darley.com
You serve others. We serve you. Founded in 1908, Darley provides the highest quality pump, technology, and equipment solutions for first responders around the world. With origins in Midwest manufacturing, Darley offers a complete line of unmanned systems, immersive training technology, equipment and pumps. More information is available at www. darley.com.
Serving All of Canada
DRAEGER SAFETY CANADA LTD.
2425 Skymark Ave., Unit 1 Mississauga ON L4W 4Y6
Tel: 905-212-6600
Toll free: 877-372-4371
Fax: 905-212-6602
Web: www.draeger.com/en-us_ca/ Safety/Firefighting
Contact us at +1 877-372-4371 to learn more about SCBA, live fire training system, fixed gas and flame detector, mobile gas detector, thermal imaging camera, drugs and alcohol testing equipment and the rest of our portfolio.
Product services and technical training courses are offered at our Mississauga, Ontario and Edmonton, Alberta locations throughout the year. Arrange for service of your SCBA and gas detector now.
Serving All of Canada
CARL THIBAULT FIRE TRUCKS INC.
38 Thibault St.
Pierreville QC J0G 1J0
Tel: 450-568-7020
Fax: 450-568-3049
Web: www.thibaultfiretrucks.com
We are a Canadian based company and we manufacture a full line of fire apparatus which includes aerial ladders, pumpers, tankers, rescue units and vacuum tankers. We provide parts and other related products. Serving QC
Fax: 514-737-2751
Web: www.cseis.com
We supply Industrial and Fire, SCBA’S, SCBA Decon Washers, Gear Extractors and Dryers, Thermal Cameras, CAF Systems, Fall Protection, Bunker Gear, Fire, Rescue and Ballistic Helmets, Fire Hose, Communications Equipment, Nozzles, Fittings, Hazmat Suits, Ventilation Fans, Gas Detectors, Confined Space Rescue Equipment, High Angle Rescue Equipment, Ice and Water rescue equipment, Boots and Gloves. Everything for Fire Fighting, EMS, Law Enforcement, Industrial and Municipal Safety and Lone Worker Protection Systems.
FIRE FIGHTING IN CANADA/ CANADIAN FIREFIGHTER
PO Box 530, 105 Donly Dr. S. Simcoe ON N3Y 4N5
Tel: 289-221-6605
Fax: 888-404-1129
Web: www.firefightingincanada.com
Canada’s National Fire Publication since 1957.
Serving All of Canada
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
FIREHALL BOOKSTORE
PO Box 530, 105 Donly Drive S. Simcoe ON N3Y 4N5
Tel: 877-267-3473
Fax: 877-624-1940
Web: www.firehallbookstore.com
Firehall Bookstore provides training & public education materials to the Canadian Fire Service industry and its professionals. Your headquarters for textbooks, DVDs, NFPA codes and standards, and fire safety & prevention educational materials for community outreach.
Products include: NFPA, IFSTA, Jones & Bartlett, Fire Engineering Books, Action Training Systems, Pearson/ Brady, Exam Preps from Dr. Ben Hirst/Performance Training Systems as well as our Firehall Mall section offering gloves, lights, tools and accessories from A.J. Stone and ResQTech.
Serving All of Canada
FIRESERVICE MANAGEMENT LTD.
34 Torlake Cres.
Toronto ON M8Z 1B3
Tel: 416-251-3552
Toll free: 888-731-7377
Fax: 416-253-0437
Web: http://www.fireservicemanagement.com
We Clean, Test, Customize, Rent and Repair YOUR Gear. Canada’s premier facility dedicated exclusively to providing the best in bunkergear cleaning, decontamination, inspection and repair. We are NFPA 1851 compliant and UL verified for all cleaning and repairs to all materials including moisture barriers. We stock materials and trim for every brand. We’re a certified ISP so we can rebuild damaged components or add pockets and other features to suit your needs. We also offer FireTrack software to help you track your inventory and inspection history. Call us today to see how we can help your department.
FIRESERVICE MANAGEMENT
TORONTO
34 Torlake Crescent
Toronto, Ontario
M8Z 1B3
TOLL FREE: 888.731.7377
FIRESERVICE MANAGEMENT CALGARY
FIREHALL.COM
PO Box 530, 105 Donly Dr. S. Simcoe ON N3Y 4N5
Tel: 289-221-6605
Fax: 888-404-1129
Web: www.firehall.com
Firehall.com provides an excellent forum for exchange among firefighters and others involved in the fire service. Advertising options include banner ads and e-blasts and offer extensive exposure to the rank and file.
Serving All of Canada
Unit 22, 2305
52 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2C 4X7
Phone: 403.287.0155
Serving All of Canada
FIRST ALERT (CANADA) INC.
20 Hereford Street
Brampton ON L6Y 0M1
Tel: 905-488-7283
Fax: 905-793-9798
Web: www.firstalert.ca
First Alert is the most trusted brand in fire safety and the leading manufacturer of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, escape ladders and other home safety products to protect what matters most. To see the full range of home safety products, visit www.firstalert.ca.
Serving All of Canada
FORT GARRY FIRE TRUCKS LTD.
RR 2, 53 Bergen Cutoff Rd.
Winnipeg MB R3C 2E6
Tel: 204-594-3473
Toll free: 800-565-3473
Fax: 204-694-3230
Web: www.fgft.com
Fort Garry Fire Trucks is Canada’s oldest and largest manufacturer of high-quality fire apparatus offering a complete line of quality pumpers, tankers, rescues, aerial devices, and custom-designed and engineered specialized units. With headquarters based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, our customers emanate from cities, towns, and municipalities throughout Canada, the U.S., and abroad with the harshest weather, climates, and terrain. We boast one of the largest fire apparatus engineering departments amongst our competitors, devoted to the design and production of equipment for the most extreme conditions in the world. We are a Bronto Skylift articulated aerial platform dealer, as well as the exclusive Canadian distributor of Sutphen Corporation aerial ladders and platforms. We truly build “One Tough Truck” and boast over 100 years of quality.
COAST TO COAST SALES AND SERVICE NETWORK:
• Brian Nash — Vice President –Sales – bnash@fgft.ca
Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 3471) Cell: 204-981-7845
• Chad Kamminga — Service & Warranty – ckamminga@fgft.ca Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 Direct Phone: 204-594-3478
REGIONAL SALES REPRESENTATIVES:
• Atlantic Canada — Adam Baldwin – abaldwin@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 2006); Cell: 902-888-9806
• Eastern Ontario & Quebec — Peter Somerton – psomerton@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 2005); Cell: 613-859-5747
• Central Ontario — Chris Pilek –cpilek@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-5653473 (ext. 3481); Cell: 204-2961915
• Northern Ontario — Bob Lock –block@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-5653473 (ext. 2004); Cell: 705-6652195
• Manitoba & Saskatchewan — Lance Spencer – lspencer@fgft.ca; TollFree: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 3475); Cell: 204-995-3895
• Alberta — Taylor Young – tyoung@ fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 3466); Cell: 204-298-9923
• British Columbia — Al Anderson &
Bryan Anderson – Fire Power Emergency Apparatus; alan@firepowerplus.com or bryan@firepowerplus. com; Phone: 1-250-668-2673 or 1-250-327-1904
• Northwest Territories — Rick Penner – rpenner@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800-565-3473 (ext. 2024); Cell: 204-981-5118
• Nunavut & Aboriginal/Northern Sales Manager — Ron Lavallee –rlavallee@fgft.ca; Toll-Free: 1-800565-3473; Cell: 204-791-1167
• Yukon — Gil Bradet – Nordique Fire Protection; sales@nordiquefire.ca; Phone: 867-334-6603
• United States (West) — Lloyd Hamilton – US Fire Equipment; lloyd@usfireequipment.com; Phone: 253-863-1301
• United States (East) — Philip Vander Molen – Vander Molen Fire Apparatus; vmfire@verizon.net; Phone: 315-952-7787
Serving All of Canada
FSI® NORTH AMERICA, A DIVISION OF FIRE SAFETY INTERNATIONAL INC.®
311 Abbe Rd. Sheffield Lake OH 44054
Tel: 440-949-2400
Fax: 440-949-2900
Web: www.fsinorth.com
FSI – Celebrating 25 years of serving the Life Safety Market worldwide 1997 – 2022
FSI North America® is a Full line supplier of mobile, portable and fixed DAT® series hazmat decon shower systems. Shower Systems include traditional water/solution based decon, electrostatic equipment only decon, and Far UVC 222nm Disinfection.
FSI® TEAS® (Temporary Emergency Air Shelters) shelter systems, offered in among the world’s largest range of size and configurations, serve for Command, Isolation, Field Hospitals/ Alternate Care from 10-1,000 beds, Sleeping, Fire Fighter Rehab, Temporary Morgues, and so on.
FSI® offers a complete range of Isolation Chambers, Rooms, Shelters, and Beds/Chairs systems.
FSI® also offers a complete range of sizes and configurations of Trailer Systems, Rescue Boats, Smoke Ejectors, and EMS supplies such as the FSI Transporter Disposable Backboards, Triage Tape Systems, FSI Medical Field Cots, and Mortuary supplies such as body bags.
Serving All of Canada
CANADIAN SAFETY EQUIPMENT IS PROUD TO BE A DISTRIBUTOR FOR THE INTERSPIRO RESPIRATORY PROTECTION LINE. THEIR STATE OF THE ART S9 INCURVE IS ONE OF THE MOST COMFORTABLE SCBAs YOU WILL EVER WEAR.
GIVE US A CALL AT 0182 OR EMAIL US AT INFO@CDNSAFETY.
No company has a richer history in respiratory protection than . Their innovations have become industry standards, time and
THE SAFEST, MOST COMFORTABLE STRUCTURAL FIRE FIGHTING HELMETS YOU WILL EVER WEAR.
NFPA APPROVED STRUCTURAL FIRE HELMETS
Disaster Deployment Kit
The most advanced thermal imager for firefighting
Larger 3 5″ display for a clearer view of the fire scene and lightweight at just 830g (1 8Ibs)
Extended dynamic temperature range to 1100˚C (2000˚F) for greater scene detail in larger, hotter fire scenarios
Enhanced feature set including laser pointer to aid communication, electronic compass for greater scene awareness and heat/cold seeker technology NFPA approved
The Solo SCBA Decon/Washing machine was designed and built for one purpose only…to protect Fire Fighters from Cancer causing agents found in the Smoke and residue left on their SCBAs. As an added bonus it can clean Gloves, boots and Helmets. In addition it substantially lowers the time spent decontaminating firefighter equipment.
WASH/DECON TWO SCBAs IN 8 minutes
The All in One Search and Rescue Toolbox
The kit has been specifically configured for easy procurement, deployment and storage in mind. Its a perfect choice for urban search and rescue teams, enhanced rescue squads, regional task forces, FEMA and SUSAR teams who are seeking the highest quality, easy to use, cost effective, all-in-one technical search system for their standard equipment cache. The Disaster Deployment Kit comes complete in a single storage case and is designed to be both easily transportable and rapidly deployable anywhere disaster strikes.
The kit includes the full six -sensor Delsar® LifeDetector® System that provides seismic detection of victims, and the high -end SearchCam 3000. SearchCam comes with the long tube set and the extension tube that allow for reach of up to 223 inch (566 cm). Alternatively the camera can be used without the tube set, and lowered to a cavity using the supplied rope accessory kit. The camera head is water tight up to 75 feet (23 m) depth. Delsar Victim Simulator is included for efficient training of the LifeDetector®
Qualified by MSA for cleaning the G1 SCBA.
IN ONE HOUR YOU CAN CLEAN/DECON:
-14 SCBAs W/MASKS and CYLINDERS
ü REDUCED HEALTH RISK
ü SAVES TIME 2/PKS IN 8 MIN ü EASY TO USE
IN ONE HOUR YOU CAN CLEAN/DECON:
• 30 HELMETS
• 60 PAIRS OF GLOVES
• 20 PAIRS OF BOOTS
• Double the above numbers with a second rack
Low Power use. Minimal moving parts. Low maintenance costs
NFPA COMPLIANT
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
GRANBY COMPOSITES
641 Rte 161
Ham-Nord QC G0P 1A0
Tel: 819-344-2525
Web: www.granbycomposites.com
Granby Composites, which forms part of the Granby Industries group, offers a wide range of options for your underground storage projects. Our products are customized to attend to our clients’ diversified mandates based on the market and business sector they serve. Our team of experts develops, manufactures and distributes fiberglass tanks and specialized equipment, whether it is for fire protection, rainwater, potable water or as an alternative to a waste water system. We are proud to have established –over 20 years – of experience and a thousand of tanks installed – a dependable reputation that today allows us to meet the highest quality standards in the field. We are thus able to offer you a custom designed, top-quality product accompanied by a courteous and efficient service, such that we always rise to your expectations.
Our enterprise is committed to be a reliable and responsible partner, and to assist you in all your different projects.
Serving All of Canada
HALE PRODUCTS INC.
607 NW 27th Ave.
Ocala FL 34475
Tel: 352-629-5020
Toll free: 800-533-3569
Web: www.haleproducts.com
Hale Products, Inc. is a part of the IDEX Fire & Safety Group. Together, these companies make an impressive arsenal of firefighting products and underscore our commitment to be the global leader in fire suppression solutions.
HOLMATRO, INC.
505 McCormick Dr. Glen Burnie MD 21061
Tel: 410-768-9662
Fax: 410-768-4878
Web: www.holmatro.com
Holmatro is the world’s leading rescue equipment supplier. Our equipment is used by first responders around the world in rescue, special tactics and industrial applications. With two high-tech production plants in North America and Netherlands, we maintain the strictest quality, safety and performance standards in the market.
At Holmatro, we are dedicated to developing innovative tools using leading technology. Our Pentheon Series is the newest line of battery powered equipment that offers users the unrestrained performance, unparalleled speed and ultimate control you have never experienced before. And with battery management made easy, you are always rescue ready!
To see our newest products, schedule a demo and request more information, visit holmatro.com. You can count on us, for life.
Serving All of Canada
HURST JAWS OF LIFE
711 North Post Road
Shelby NC 28150
Tel: 704-487-6961
Web: www.jawsoflife.com
HURST is the only manufacturer of the Jaws of Life® brand. There is no equal to saving lives. The company’s commitment to research and development and dedication to quality engineering and manufacturing has resulted in a line of innovative products known for outstanding safety, durability and performance. HURST Jaws of Life Inc. is a unit of IDEX Corporation, an applied solutions company. For more information about HURST Jaws of Life, please visit www.jawsoflife.com.
IAMRESPONDING.COM
PO Box 93
Dewitt NY 13214
Tel: 315-701-1372
Toll free: 877-509-0381
Web: www.IamResponding.com
IamResponding is the leading provider of mobile dispatch alerting, delivering dispatch alerts (CAD feeds and live audio) to the mobile devices of more than 400,000 emergency service providers. IaR lets your teams know immediately about the incident, shows them where to go, and lets them know what they will encounter when they get there.
Used by more than 9,000 departments and specialty teams, IamResponding includes a full suite of functions, including: supplemental dispatch notifications via push notification (including CAD and live audio notifications right to your mobile devices), text message and email; Google Mapping of incident locations, with turn by turn navigation to the scene; hydrant and water source mapping and management; mobile pre-plans, scheduling, mass messaging, records management; incident reporting; training records; and so much more!
Try a FREE 60-day trial! Serving All of Canada
IDEX FIRE & SAFETY
711 N. Post Rd.
Shelby NC 28150
Tel: 800-537-2659
Web: www.idexfiresafety.com
IDEX Fire & Safety brings trusted brands together to deliver innovation in both customer experience and integrated solutions that revolutionize performance and technology to make the fire ground and rescue scene safer to save lives.
INDUSTRIES LAFLEUR INC.
2359 Fiset Blvd
Sorel-Tracy QC J3P 5K2
Tel: 450-743-3918
Fax: 450-743-3906
Web: www.industrieslafleur.com
Fire rescue trucks (walk-in and non walk-in rescue trucks)
Custom truck bodies
High quality since 1969
ISO 9001
CWB 47.1 & 47.2
KOCHEK CANADA
62 Bradwick Dr., Vaughan ON L4K 1K8
Tel: 416-602-0404
Web: www.kochek.com
sales@kochekcanada.com
Robin Lewis, Customer Service
laura@kochekcanada.com
Laura Kenyon, Regional Director
Serving All of Canada
KROWN CORPORATE/ KROWN RUST CONTROL
35 Magnum Drive
Schomberg ON L0G 1T0
Tel: 905-939-8750
Toll free: 800-267-5744
Fax: 905-939-8710
Web: http://www.krown.com
Krown Rust Control is a Canadian Company that manufactures penetrate/lubricant corrosion products that are used in the industry to extend the life of vehicles and equipment. Krown has been in business for over 36 years and currently have over 300 locations in North America. Serving All of Canada
The call is coming when you will face an electric vehicle (EV) battery fire. Extinguishing an EV fire with traditional methods may take hours and thousands of gallons of water. Rosenbauer's battery extinguishing system technology (BEST) does the job with a fraction of the water and within an hour or less. When positioned beneath the vehicle, the piercing unit punctures the battery pack and halts thermal runaway by injecting cooling water around the battery cells. What was a resource-intensive call for service is now safe, efficient, and fast.
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
MATJACK/INDIANAPOLIS INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
2320 Duke St.
Indianapolis IN 46205
Tel: 317-359-3078
Toll free: 800-827-3755
Fax: 317-359-3079
Web: www.matjack.com
Manufacturer of Matjack airlift bags - 120/150 and 175 psi. high pressure along with flat lift HP airbags, medium and low pressure cushions, along with Jumbo Safelift cushion sets, a complete line of underwater air lift bags, Matsack Hazmat tank sealing equipment, Pipe sealing plugs and Hosecat- a firehose coupling and uncoupling assist tool.
Serving All of Canada
MEIKO CLEAN SOLUTIONS CANADA
INC.
P.O. Box 21138, Meadowvale Postal Outlet
Mississauga ON L5N 6A2
Tel: 800-55-MEIKO
Toll free: 800-55-MEIKO
Web: www.meiko.ca/en_us
Breathe easy with TopClean Series from MEIKO: A multiple-machine solution for PPE and SCBA cleaning and decontamination.
TopClean units use time, temperature and chemo-mechanical action to provide exceptional cleaning for masks, SCBA packs, bottles, helmets, boots and more. They wash every crevice and surface of your PPE to effectively remove dangerous toxins and residues. Years of scientific research went into the design that delivers the same level of clean, every time.
MAXIMETAL INC.
9345, 25e Ave
Saint-Georges, QC G6A 1L1
Tel: 418-228-6637
Toll free: 800-510-6337
Fax: 418-228-0493
Web: www.maximetal.com
MAXIMETAL, an Oshkosh Corporation company, is a dynamic, innovative company with 40 years’ experience designing and building optimized intervention vehicles for Fire & Emergency as well as Power & Utility customers. OUR MISSION: To support those who keep our families safe and comfortable by designing and building vehicles that stand out for their quality and ingenuity. Serving All of Canada
As the leading global manufacturer of cleaning and disinfection technology for nearly 100 years, MEIKO can help you take safety and hygiene to a whole new level. Say goodbye to manual cleaning and invest in MEIKO’s professional decontamination solution.
Serving AB|ALL|BC|MB|NB|NL|NS|NT|NU|ON|PE|QC|SK|YT
NEDERMAN CANADA
5865 McLaughlin Road Unit 1
Mississauga ON L5R 1B8
Tel: 866-332-2611
Web: www.nederman.com
With 75+ years of experience and well over 100,000 installations, Nederman offers diesel exhaust extraction systems designed specifically for emergency and fire vehicles. From the planning and design stage to installation, commissioning and maintenance support Nederman is your clean air partner.
Nederman Magna Systems reliably capture 100% of dangerous diesel exhaust emissions with source capture technology that prevents fumes from traveling throughout the station. Exhaust fumes are removed right at the tailpipe – the most efficient method. Our system design supports ergonomic attachments and quick-release when speed is required for fast station exits. Magna Systems have no coiled hoses or loops and saves space between trucks. Nederman’s wide variety of product solutions are trusted at thousands of fire stations around the world with high quality construction and exceptional performance that maximized protection.
Serving All of Canada
OMEGA COMMUNICATIONS LTD.
110 - 3677 Highway 97N
Kelowna BC V1X 5C3
Tel: 250-860-8016
Toll free: 888-860-8016
Fax: 250-860-7477
Web: www.omegacom.ca
Since 1976 Omega Communications has been providing PAGERS, TWO-WAY RADIOS and DISPATCH CONSOLE solutions to Fire Services across Canada.
Serving All of Canada
NFPA
c/o Firehall Bookstore, PO Box 530, 105 Donly Dr. S. Simcoe ON N3Y 4N5
Tel: 877-267-3473
Fax: 877-624-1940
Web: www.firehallbookstore.com
Canadian distributor for NFPA standards, memberships, Fire Prevention Week™, Sparky the Fire Dog® and other public education items.
Serving All of Canada
ONTARIO FIRE TRUCK INC.
1397 Old Hwy 99
Dundas ON L9H 5E3
Tel: 905-628-3324
Toll free: 800-474-6698
Web: ontariofiretruck.com
Ontario Fire Truck Inc. is Ontario’s first choice for Fire Apparatus Service & Sales. We are your first and only call for Fire Apparatus Service, Sales & Testing! We offer you the finest repairs in the industry; we offer a 24 hour, 7 days a week service. All of our service staff is fully licensed Class “A” & “T” both provincially and EVT certified. We are fully insured and have over 30 years experience to provide the best service at your location. Our fully stocked mobile service trucks travel all over Ontario! Why take your truck anywhere, we come to you for both Service and Testing! Our Sales staff has over 80 years combined experience in the fire industry, we offer only the finest Seagrave fire apparatus, and Our Company believes only the best will do! We are the authorized sales and Service Company for Seagrave fire apparatus and equipment companies.
“The bitterness of poor quality remains, long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten”
Serving All of Canada
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
ONTARIO LAUNDRY SYSTEMS INC.
5-7475 Kimbel St.
Mississauga ON L5S 1E7
Tel: 905-673-1308
Toll free: 888-669-4837
Fax: 905-673-0408
Web: www.ontariolaundry.com
Exclusive distributor in Ontario of Electrolux Professional, Wascomat & Staber washers, dryers, and doing cabinets which meet all NFPA recommendations of laundering Firemen’s Turnout Gear. We offer a large selection of equipment and parts. Our extensive parts and service department offers complete installation and training on operation and maintenance of all equipment. Serving All of Canada
PLYMOVENT
5655 Kennedy Road, Unit 1
Mississauga ON L4Z 3E1
Tel: 800-465-0327
Web: www.plymovent.com
Since 1975, we have made it our business to ensure clean air in fire stations. We provide high-quality products to protect firefighters and others from exposure to hazardous diesel exhaust. Our source capture and removal systems are the recommended method for controlling exhaust emissions at your station. Breathe clean air at work with Plymovent. #hookupthehose Serving All of Canada
RAM CANADA INC
71 CH. D’AUTEUIL
CANDIAC QC J5R 5H5
Tel: 450-444-1559
Toll free: 800-563-1559
Fax: 450-444-1421
Web: www.ramcanada.ca
RAM Canada Inc. a Rapid Access Mgmt. company, designs and manufactures high quality rapid entry systems and products for emergency services: Fire, Police, First Responders. A standardized access solution with the highest level of security and adaptability will simultaneously increase fire response efficiency, decrease operational costs. Key tracking, auditing and deleting allows for a system representing the lowest possible risk for operators and the city. A rapid access system means lower costs and saving lives. Our rapid access solutions focus on integrating the city’s existing technologies and building owners to insure a smooth, organic transition and usage. Our electronic key technology, operational since 2004, has been tested and approved by gov’t agencies for military use as well as highly sensitive federal buildings. We integrate our existing technology to minimize the complexity or differentiation of the user’s day to day activities. No locksmith has access to our key blanks.
Serving All of Canada
RESQTECH SYSTEMS INC.
189 Bysham Park Dr. Woodstock ON N4T 1P1
Tel: 519-539-0645
Toll free: 800-363-7370
Fax: 519-539-0646
Web: http://www.resqtech.com
ResQtech Systems Inc. is a Canadian family-owned and operated fire apparatus and equipment supplier since 1985. Offering a complete line of innovative products, ResQtech is your source for the latest in fire apparatus and equipment. Supported by in-house technicians and full stocked parts inventory, ResQtech is committed to service after the sale. Resqtech Is headquartered in Woodstock, Ontario and provides the ability to shop after hours at the Resqstore. com.
Serving All of Canada
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PHOENIX
Head Office: 6415 Golden West Ave. Red Deer AB T4P 3X2
Tel: 403-347-7045
Toll free: 800-494-4210
Fax: 403-347-7049
Web: www.rockymountainphoenix.com
Rocky Mountain Phoenix is your one-stop-shop for top-of-the-line innovative fire truck and fire equipment products and services. We offer a comprehensive line of emergency apparatus and emergency equipment, brands you know and trust; Rosenbauer, MSA, Innotex, CET Fire Pumps, HURST Jaws of Life, Akron Brass, Haix, Key Hose, MSA Cairns, Task Force Tips, Ready Rack, Firecraft and many more.
We service what we sell. We provide 24/7 service for all your emergency fire apparatus and fire equipment through our Shop Service and Mobile Service. Annual fire pump testing, fire truck and fire equipment service and repairs for British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, PEI and all of Canada’s Arctic. Visit Us: https://www.rockymountainphoenix.com
BRANCHES:
• 103-2285 Queen St., Abbotsford, BC V2T 6T3; Tel: 604-864-7303 | Fax: 604-8644938 | Toll Free: 1-888-815-0500
• 320 Logan Rd., Bridgewater, NS B4V 3J8 Tel: 902-298-0415 | Toll Free: 1-844-530-4003
Serving AB|BC|MB|NB|NS|NT|NU|PE|SK|YT
READY RACK BY GROVES INCORPORATED
818 Trakk Lane
Woodstock IL 60098
Tel: 815-337-9780
Fax: 815-338-8640
Web: www.readyrack.com
At ready Rack, we engineer customizable PPE storage systems from wall-mounted, mobile, and freestanding lockers to heavy-duty hose and bottle racks — all meticulously crafted from robust tubular steel for years of durable station organization. We also offer science-based decontamination solutions alongside our complete line of highly specialized extractors and dryers. Ready Rack is the single source of innovative PPE solutions for any house. For more information contact your local Canadian Distributor or visit our website at readyrack.com
Serving All of Canada
NFPA 1031 Certification Program
This FESTI Certification program consists of 5 co-requisite courses. Courses can be taken at any time or validated from past student transcripts when applicable
Inspections & Legal Procedures Focus on the legal framework of fire safety inspections and the real-life application of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act and the Ontario Fire Code.
NFPA 1072 Hazmat Awareness: Explore the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) and the responsibilities of employees who identify hazardous materials in their workplace.
Fire Code Part 2 & 6: Review the prescriptive requirements of parts 2 and 6 of the Ontario Fire Code.
Fire Code Part 9: Gain a thorough understanding of how retrofit is utilized to make aging buildings safer and the historical cases that have shaped the compliance requirements of Part 9 of the Ontario Fire Code.
Level I Prep Course: This course is a requisite program for those candidates that are seeking to certify to NFPA 1031 level I.
WHY NOW?
• Stand out from the competition during the recruitment process
• Fully virtual courses - learn from anywhere!
• Learn from leading industry instructors
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
ROLLNRACK, LLC
PO Box 328
Mukwonago WI 53149
Tel: 262-565-7833
Fax: 262-363-2034
Web: www.rollnrack.com
THE ROLLNRACK HOSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM is customizable for your firefighters. Streamline hose management with a priority on safety and efficiency. The Power Roller can drain and roll a 100’ length of LDH in 30 seconds. LDH rolls are rocked into or out of unit. Hose rolls are loaded with two firefighters onto stationary rigs with the GO PACK or ROLLNRACK. No one rides on moving rigs when loading. Our Efficiency Package saves you money. The FASTBACK will roll up either hand lines or forestry hose. THE ROLLNRACK SYSTEM improves your firefighter’s lives immediately. MADE IN THE USA.
Serving All of Canada
SAFEDESIGN APPAREL LTD.
34 Torlake Crescent Toronto ON M8Z 1B3
Tel: 416-253-9122
Toll free: 877-253-9122
Fax: 416-253-0437
Web: http://www.safedesign.com
Specialists in Firefighters’ Protective Clothing. From Helmets to Bunkergear to Boots and Stationwear, we’ve got you covered from head to toe. Our team is knowledgeable and trained to ensure a proper and professional fit. Our brands: Globe Bunkergear, Hoods and the amazing Globe Boots, Cairns Helmets, Shelby ‘Firewall’ Gloves, PGI Hoods including the BarriAire Particulate Blocking Hood, PGI Wildland clothing, Black Diamond Footwear, Workrite Stationwear and Horace Small Uniforms. If you would like to hear from a rep in your area please call us today – 416253-9122
Serving All of Canada
SANI GEAR INC.
545 Trillium Dr, Unit 4
Kitchener ON N2R 1J4
Tel: 519-893-1235
Toll free: 888-660-1840
Web: http://www.sanigear.ca
Sani Gear Inc. is a verified ISP (Independent Service Provider) located in Kitchener, ON, and in Gatineau, QC. Sani Gear completes advanced cleaning, hydrostatic testing, advanced inspections, and full repair services, using all NFPA compliant materials. All services provided meet NFPA 1851 - 2020 edition, and are recognized by all manufacturers as a warranty center in Canada. Established in 2003, we have gained the trust of all departments from small volunteer services to large full time services. We pride ourselves on providing the same level of service to all of our customers no matter the size of department.
SEATS CANADA INC.
1800 Bonhill Road
Mississauga ON L5T 1C8
Tel: 905-364-5843
Fax: 905-364-7822
Web: www.seatscanada.com
We offer a complete line of quality Emergency Vehicle seating for driver, officer, crew, wall mount and jump seats. Engineered for comfort and safety, these seats have easy exit flip-up split headrest and are manufactured in a wide variety of covering material.
Serving All of Canada
SPARKLE SOLUTIONS
100 Courtland Ave.
Concord ON L4K 3T6
Tel: 866-660-2282
Toll free: 866-660-2282
Fax: 905-660-2268
Web: www.sparklesolutions.ca
We are the industry leader in supplying Complete Laundering Solutions for personal protection equipment. Complete firefighter protection: Turn Out Gear extractors , dryers plus Gear cleaning detergents.
When our Ram ExpressDry Gear
Dryers and our Continental ExpressWash Gear extractors, are combined with our ALL IN ONE gear detergent includes HYGEIO with COVID disinfectant and smart surface 10 wash or 30 day continued mechanical protection.. Also available through AJ Stone.
Serving All of Canada
SUPER VAC
3842 Redman Drive
Fort Collins CO 80524
Tel: 970-297-7100
Fax: 970-297-7099
Web: www.supervac.com
A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac offers the largest lineup of PPVs, spanning from 8- to 80-inch blades, as well as smoke ejectors, rescue saws, rehab misters, smoke curtains and more. Super Vac’s lineup includes its popular battery fan that works with DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and HURST batteries.
Serving All of Canada
STARFIELD LION
23 Benton Road
Toronto ON M6M 3G2
Tel: 416-789-4354
Toll free: 800-473-5553
Fax: 416-789-5475
Web: www.starfieldlion.com
Starfield Lion has a legacy and ongoing vision of introducing PPE that is designed to ensure the health, safety and performance of the first responders who serve our communities. Your safety is our top priority. Your needs drive our innovations, we listen and develop the solution.
Serving All of Canada
SUTPHEN CORPORATION
6450 Eiterman Road
Dublin OH 43016
Tel: 800-726-7030
Web: www.sutphen.com
As a family-owned and operated business of over 130 years, Sutphen Corporation’s mission is to build the safest, most reliable fire apparatus in the world through innovation and customer focus.
Serving All of Canada
SVI TRUCKS
3842 Redman Dr.
Fort Collins CO 80524
Tel: 970-297-7100
Toll free: 888-784-1112
Fax: 970-297-7099
Web: www.svitrucks.com
SVI Trucks, a Super Vacuum Manufacturing Company located in Fort Collins, Colo., builds custom fire apparatus, including rescue trucks, hazmat units, command vehicles, fire engines, tanker trucks, law enforcement vehicles and more. To see SVI’s full fleet, visit svitrucks.com. To browse drawings, features and specifications of a truck, visit SVI’s Apparatus pages and click on any truck image.
Serving All of Canada
2023 NATIONAL SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY
VECTOR SOLUTIONS
10805 Rancho Bernardo Rd, Suite
200 San Diego CA 92127
Tel: 519-820-7751
Toll free: 877-944-6372
Fax: 858-487-8762
Web: www.vectorsolutions.com
<span lang=”EN-US”>Vector Solutions delivers the industry’s most comprehensive suite of software for operational readiness. The platform includes tools for managing training, operations, assets, and staffing. With Vector Solutions you can track Fire and EMS training requirements, compliance tasks, mandatory inspections, controlled substances, employee scheduling, live skills assessments, and much more. Find us online at <a title=”http://www.vectorsolutions. com/fire” href=”http://www.vectorsolutions.com/fire”>www.vectorsolutions.com/fire</a>.</span>
Serving AB|ALL|BC|MB|NB|NL|NS|NT|NU|ON|PE|QC|SK|YT
VFIS
145 Wellington Street West, Suite 209
Toronto ON M5J 1H8
Tel: 800-461-8347
Fax: 855-558-0014
Web: www.cviscanada.com
VFIS is Canada’s largest insurer of Accident & Sickness coverage. We have been protecting Canada’s Heroes since 1991. We have the most comprehensive coverage in Canada as well as multiple products to address your fire department needs. Serving All of Canada
WATERAX INC.
6635 Henri-Bourassa W.
Montreal QC H4R 1E1
Tel: 514-637-1818
Toll free: 855-616-1818
Web: www.waterax.com
Trusted by wildland firefighters around the world, WATERAX sets the industry standard by developing innovative, portable fire pumps and water-handling equipment designed to withstand demanding applications and rugged environments. With a time-tested legacy of reliability, WATERAX carries on its mission to place powerful, precision engineered pumps into the hands of the men and women who need to move water to protect our forests and most cherished natural resources from the ravages of wildfires!
Serving All of Canada
WATEROUS COMPANY
125 Hardman Ave. S.
South St. Paul MN 55075
Tel: 651-450-5000
Fax: 651-450-5090
Web: www.waterousco.com
C.H. Waterous started Waterous Engine Works Company in 1844 in Brantford, Ontario and then expanded to South St. Paul, Minnesota in 1886. Since then, Waterous has been the leader in the manufacturing of fire pumps for our everyday heroes. At Waterous, we have been and always will be firefighters.
Serving All of Canada
WFR WHOLESALE FIRE & RESCUE LTD.
240136 Frontier Cres.
Rocky View County AB T1X 0R4
Tel: 403-279-0400
Toll free: 800-561-0400
Fax: 800-561-0400
Web: www.wfrfire.com
WFR Wholesale Fire & Rescue is Canada’s equipment destination for fire & rescue equipment. This family owned and operated business has been serving firefighters since 1986 and endeavours to continue our history of supplying you our best products and unquestionable service and support.
Serving All of Canada
ZIAMATIC CORP. (ZICO)
10 West College Ave., PO Box 337 Yardley PA 19067-8337
Tel: 215-493-3618
Toll free: 800-711-3473
Fax: 866-493-1401
Web: www.ziamatic.com
For over 50 years, Ziamatic Corp. has provided first responders with the tools and equipment they need to make their jobs safer, easier, and more efficient every day. If you want quality, you want ZICO.
Serving All of Canada
YOUR HEADQUARTERS FOR TRAINING & PUBLIC EDUCATION MATERIALS
Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention
$ 71.25 | Item #: 36182
The first edition will equip interventionists and program managers with the tools needed to create, implement, and evaluate a Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention program. Meets the job performance requirements of NFPA 1030, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program positions.
Hazardous Materials Technician, 3rd Edition
$130.15 | Item #: 35028
This latest edition prepares emergency responders conducting technical, advanced, offensive operations during hazardous material incidents to meet the Technician level certification requirements of NFPA 470. This manual adds to the techniques and principles learned in IFSTA’s Hazardous Materials for First Responders, 6th Edition. This edition includes a chapter titled Rescue and Recovery, an entirely new topic for this manual.
Instructor 1 for Fire and Emergency Services
$67.00 | Item #: 1593705787
Builds a solid foundation for your fire service teaching career. This book provides the information necessary to become certified as a Fire Instructor 1 according to the NFPA’s 1041 standards, covering lesson plans, learning styles, how to construct a lecture, audiovisual equipment and classroom setup, mentoring, distance learning, and testing.
BY VINCE MACKENZIE Fire Chief Grand Falls-Windsor, N.L.
FVOLUNTEERVISION
Advocacy is for everyone
or most of my fire fighting life, I have been involved in fire service advocacy in one way or another. Starting off as a volunteer firefighter in my hometown, it seems I have always been trying to work with others to further a cause. Now, decades later, I realize that has created a culmination of experiences that has taken me down a path I never dreamed of. You may feel the same.
I have met outstanding individuals and mentors along the way. Those who truly give back do so ever so humbly, without posturing for accolades and awards, and are trusted, making you comfortable at whatever level you work at. We all know when you just get a good sense feeling from good people. I have been truly blessed to be rubbing shoulders and learning from some great people in Canada’s fire service.
I was a young school age boy when I first started reading Fire Fighting in Canada. My father was a volunteer firefighter and had a subscription in the late 1970s. The issues of this magazine could be found around the house and I really enjoyed reading about the fire service’s news and innovations. Some of the early columnists influenced how I thought about the fire department outside of my little town. This was all in an era before social media and the information sharing we now enjoy today. Decades later, I find myself honoured to write a column in the very same publication that helped form my culture in emergency service.
Firefighters by their very nature are individuals who step up in a community to help and take it to a whole new level. Not only do they live the danger and disruptiveness that fire fighting demands, but firefighters start their careers as community advocates that join up in most cases just to help. Whether they know it or not, firefighters become advocacy leaders for many causes.
that there are politics in everything,and the fire service was no exception. I also got to meet incredible people outside my normal circle of work. That truly made me a better firefighter every day and consequently, looking back, I think I’m a better fire chief because of it.
Working on a provincial fire service board and advocacy soon morphed into supporting national issues and improvements to fire service culture. I feel privileged to learn all that I have. The experience of moving governments and organizations forward was interesting even in times when the challenges presented dire outlooks for our fire service. It was through the collective work of associations and good people advocating that moved our fire departments to where they are now.
I share this because I believe you are reading this column because you care about and are interested in the fire service. I want to impress upon you that it is people like you that will advocate and make the next changes. No matter how small-town or big-city you are, we all have an important role to share together.
Canada’s fire service needs strong advocacy by those who are in the trenches. Volunteer firefighters have a very important role to play in the future. Our sector is dealing with many challenging times and makes up a
It was through the collective work of associations and good people advocating that moved our fire departments to where they are now. ‘‘ ’’
Shortly after I joined the fire department, I found myself helping the community and spent time spreading fire safety messaging for fire prevention. This is an early form of advocacy that most firefighters slide into easily. “Working towards a safer tomorrow” was a tag line that buzzed in my head during my Learn Not to Burn experiences educating in local schools. That attitude stuck with me.
Later, when I ran for a board position with our provincial association, it seemed like a natural fit and I thought it would be cool to be involved and learn on a wider scale. After getting elected the first time, I spent many years learning advocacy and the political side of life. I soon learned
Vince MacKenzie is the fire chief in Grand Falls-Windsor, N.L. He is an executive member of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and the current president of the Maritime Fire Chiefs Association. Email Vince at firechief@ townofgfw.com and follow him on Twitter at @FirechiefVince.
significant percentage of the fire service. Advocacy has to come from the grassroots to be effective. It also must come from the collaboration with all the fire services large and small. It’s when we truly understand each other’s side of the shop that associations become most effective at get things moving in the right direction.
Do you have what it takes to step up? I encourage you to try, and like me, you will suddenly look back, smile, and know we have all made a difference together.
I would like to pass on to you and especially our younger readers, that you never know where your fire service path, career or volunteer, may take you. Never underestimate the vast knowledge and experience you share and gain. Even the mistakes we make provide so much to learn from. It all helps to shape our future for the good.
your team with a TIC for every firefighter
The FLIR K2 for under 2K
For a small investment, the FLIR K2 pays off in big dividends. Rugged, dependable, and easy to use, the FLIR K2 is designed to provide total situational awareness in the thick of the fire. Its superior performance in high-heat conditions combined with the scene enhancements from FLIR’s proprietary Multi-Spectral Imaging (MSX®) ensure your team can navigate through thick smoke safely.
Learn more about the FLIR K2 Thermal Imaging Camera at flir.com/k2.
MOBILE PUMP TESTING CONDUCTED AT YOUR LOCATION BY CERTIFIED EMERGENCY VEHICLE TECHNICIANS TO NFPA 1911 AVAILABLE ACROSS CANADA.
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