www.torontofirefighters.org
E-mail: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org
CHIEF
MANAGING
Sornberger, Suzanne Boss Tel.: 416.466.1167 Fax: 416.466.6632
E-mail: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org
SENIOR ASSISTANT EDITORS James Coones and Ken de Jong
ASSISTANT EDITOR Matthew Spagnolo
DESIGN
t is with great honour that I step into the role of President of the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Association. Representing the brave, dedicated, and hardworking members of this association is not only a responsibility I take seriously, but also a privilege I hold close to my heart. I want to thank you for placing your trust in me. I am fully committed to serving every member of this union with transparency, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the values that have defined our profession for generations.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to President Reed and Vice President MacLachlan for their outstanding leadership, guidance, and mentorship over the past two years. Both, have gone above and beyond to help prepare me for this new role, and I am truly grateful for their support. Their dedication to our membership and their willingness to share their knowledge and experience have been invaluable, and I will carry those lessons forward as I step into this new chapter.
This is a time of change and renewal—not just within our union, but within the broader structure of our fire service. The newly elected executive board brings energy, drive, and a strong desire to do right by our membership. While many of our board members are new and still gaining experience, they are passionate, intelligent, and deeply committed to learning and growing in their roles. I have full confidence that this group will rise to meet the moment. Leadership doesn’t come from tenure alone—it comes from dedication, listening, and the willingness to stand up and fight for what’s right. These are qualities I already see in our team.
As we move forward, we must remain focused on our priorities: protecting the safety and well-being of our members, advocating for better resources and working conditions, ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for all, and keeping the health and future of the fire service in Toronto strong. This includes supporting our members’ mental health, fighting for appropriate staffing levels, ensuring our training and equipment meet today’s standards, and being unafraid to raise our voices when decisions are made that impact our members’ lives.
At the same time, we are working with a management team that has also undergone considerable change. Many in leadership roles on the employer side are still learning the ropes, and this creates both challenges and opportunities. While inexperience can lead to uncertainty, it also opens the door to building new relationships, setting a tone of mutual respect, and shaping a more collaborative and productive working environment from the outset.
I know this role will come with its challenges. There will be tough days, difficult decisions, and moments that require us to dig deep. But I believe in the strength of this association and the people who make it what it is. I believe in the power of solidarity, and I believe that by working together—with honesty, courage, and a clear vision—we can continue to protect the legacy of our profession while building a better future for the next generation.
I look forward to the work ahead. I look forward to listening, learning, and leading with all of you. Together, we will rise to this moment.
In solidarity,
There are many reasons a member might request a transfer - whether to change the type or volume of calls, reduce commute time, work with friends or classmates, pursue acting time, or shift career direction. Our collective agreement allows members the right to submit a transfer under Article 45. So, what should you know?
Currently, transfer requests are submitted through Quatro, with the exception of those on a long-term absence. For transfers, this includes absences such as WSIB, maternity, paternity, or parental leave, where the member is still considered part of the workplace. Vacation or lieu days do not qualify as long-term absences.
For those on a long-term absence, a transfer form - available on our website - must be emailed to Toronto Fire Services (TFS). Once submitted, your request will be reviewed by TFS and either approved or denied. Members should check the status of their request periodically and follow up as needed. If approved, your transfer will enter TFS’s database for the next cycle and remain active until it is completed or rescinded. Rescind requests must also be submitted via Quatro.
Transfer Process
(Operations – Every 2 Months)
Transfers, designations, and promotions are processed in accordance with the current transfer practices:
1. The most senior applicant will be awarded the vacancy based on their TFS start date, regardless of their position on a designation list. If two or more applicants have the same start date, selection is based on the designation list for the higher-standing member. If neither are on a list, a coin toss will determine the successful applicant.
2. Members can select up to six locations and all four shifts, for a total of 24 possible combinations. If you are the most senior candidate for multiple options, you will be placed
in your highest-ranked selection. Be mindful when ranking both location and shift preferences.
3. Designations and promotions are awarded based on a member’s position on the list and their current assignment. Placement follows this order:
- Command and shift
- Command
- Shift
- Remaining vacancies
TFS will make every effort to keep members as close as possible to their current location.
4. Transfer Rules You Should Know:
i) You cannot submit a transfer request until your probationary period is complete.
ii) You must remain in your new assignment for one year—two years if placed on a specialty apparatus (defined as squads, heavy haz, towers, high-rise units, or Pump 334). You may not submit another transfer request until this term is complete. Division Commanders may exercise discretion in exceptional cases.
iii) Mutual transfers are also subject to a one-year minimum. If one party in a mutual transfer retires, resigns, transfers divisions, is promoted, or assumes an acting role within the first 12 months, the other member will be returned to their original position. Again, Division Commanders have some discretion.
iv) Special accommodations (e.g., command or shift preferences) will be considered, provided they do not negatively impact another member. Submit accommodation requests prior to the transfer deadline.
We frequently receive questions regarding acting time eligibility and bumping procedures. Although our collective agreement and Fire Chief Communiqués provide some guidance, the language can still be unclear to both members and management. Below is a summary of current practices, subject to change.
1. Scheduled to Act
A member is scheduled to act whenever their Captain or District Chief is absent. “Extra time” refers to time off other than vacation or lieu days and comes into play when a full Captain needs to be assigned to a truck taken out of service. In such cases, the Captain will bump the most junior Acting Captain on extra time within command. The Acting Captain will not be paid unless the bumping Captain is working overtime
2. Placement of Acting Captains TFS will first use the Acting Captain assigned to the truck. If both the Captain and A/C are off, TFS will assign the most senior available A/C in the following order:
- Within the same district
- Within the same command
- City-wide (if necessary)
3. Trucks Taken Out of Service
When an Acting Captain’s truck is taken out of service for staffing purposes, TFS will reassign the member as follows.
Note: Seniority of the displaced A/C does not apply in these scenarios:
i) Bump the most junior A/C acting off their truck and out of district
ii) Bump the most junior A/C acting off their truck within district
iii) If neither scenario applies, the A/C loses their ride and will not be paid
iv) At no time can an Acting Captain bump another Acting Captain off their own truck.
*Remember as well, at no time may an Acting Captain bump another Acting Captain off of their own truck, regardless of seniority.
Our Association and TFS continue working toward consistency and transparency in these processes. However, with the influx of new Platoon Chiefs, Acting Platoon Chiefs, and Designated Officers, occasional misunderstandings are expected.
If you believe your acting placement or transfer was handled incorrectly, raise the issue through your chain of command (TFS prefers inquiries after 0800h). If you still need clarity, please contact your Command Executive or reach out to me directly.
Stay safe,
For my first Fire Watch article, I think it’s worth sharing a bit of my background - how I got here, why I chose this path, and what this job has come to mean to me. I promise that every article after this will focus on things much more important than me.
As most of you know, I grew up in a firefighting family. My father, John, joined Toronto Fire Services (TFD at the time) in 1978, following the suggestion of his father. My grandfather saw firefighting as an exceptional career, one that offered stability, respect, and community. That kind of foresight was rare in his generation, especially among immigrant families who often focused on more traditional trades.
ated, I tried hard to find an articling job at a union-side firm. It’s a competitive and niche field, and while I came close, I couldn’t land a position.
I was lucky to be offered an articling spot at a small but very busy commercial litigation firm. We handled everything from construction disputes to family law and contract issues. I was in court within weeks. That part of the job - arguing cases, problem-solving under pressure -I truly loved. But the hours were punishing. The stress was constant. And often, it felt like my heart was not in the work.
this Association.
My uncle, Dan, followed in his footsteps a few years later, joining the North York Fire Department. I can’t remember a single family dinner where they weren’t talking fire. I remember particularly heated debates around amalgamation. Of course, at the time, I didn’t understand most of what they were saying, but their passion for the job was unmistakable. It left an impression.
When my cousin Steven decided to carry on the family tradition and join the fire service, I was extremely proud of him. Still, at that point, firefighting wasn’t something I saw for myself. My parents, especially my dad, pushed me toward education.
So, I kept going. I completed my undergraduate degree in English and Philosophy at York University. I stayed on to do a master’s degree in English, largely because I wasn’t quite ready to enter the “real world.”
Eventually, I buckled down, studied for the LSAT, and was accepted to Osgoode Hall Law School.
Law school was a completely different beast. Being surrounded by so many brilliant people was humbling. After my first year, I found my niche in labour and employment law. It felt like meaningful work. When I gradu-
All the while, firefighting remained in the background of my life, but it was starting to call louder. In 2017, my brother Michael joined TFS, and my brother-in-law Robert joined Hamilton Fire. I watched how much they loved their jobs. I saw the camaraderie, the purpose. I realized I was missing something.
It took four years of law practice before I admitted to myself that I needed a change. I completed my PreService Training online at night and on weekends, then used my two-week vacation to fly to Texas to complete the hands-on portion.
I joined TFS in 2018. From my first day in uniform, I knew I’d made the right decision. I haven’t looked back once.
Not long after I joined TFS, word of my uncle Dan’s illness began to spread. The support from the fire community during that time was overwhelming. I had no idea just how deeply he was loved until I joined. When he passed, barely a year after I started, his funeral was one of the proudest, most emotional moments of my life. Gerlando Peritore and the Ceremony & Bereavement Committee did an outstanding job. The sea of uniforms, the rows of saluting members, is something I will never forget. Being able to honour him in uniform, alongside my family, meant everything to me.
That day cemented my commitment not only to the job, but also to
Shortly after, I ran in a by-election for South Command Executive Officer, when Geoff Boisseau stepped down. I was humbled to be elected. My first Board meeting in April 2020 was right as COVID took hold. The debates and decisions that unfolded were unlike anything I had experienced before.
Frank Ramagnano was an incredible leader—confident, strategic, thoughtful. Kevin McCarthy, then VP, was fearless in standing up for our members. James Reed, who would later become President, struck me immediately as a steady hand—meticulous, committed, and kind. When John Maclachlan returned to the Board, he brought wisdom and a deep well of experience. And I have to mention John Blair—never afraid to speak truth to power, and always standing by his convictions.
Now, as your Vice President, I am honoured beyond words. I feel deeply privileged to have the opportunity to help shape the direction of this job and to serve those that give their careers to helping others.
I joked during recruit class that I left law to actually help people. There’s some truth to that—but the deeper truth is that I wanted to feel proud of the work I was doing. I wanted to feel like part of something bigger than myself. And I found that here.
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
Offer expires Dec 31, 2025
“What I feared has come upon me, what I dreaded has
hat do you do to unwind — to recharge, relax, or reset?
uch are the words of Job, a character in the Bible who, in one day, lost ten of his children and all of his resources (7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 oxen, 500 donkeys, plus the tragic loss of most of his work force). To make things worse, a short time later, Job was afflicted with a painful skin disease that left him in the dirt as a broken man. His wife, having had enough, had this counsel for him,
While Job didn’t curse God, all his sufferings certainly made him think about death. In fact, for a period of time, he longed for it, praying that God take his life. Such are often the thoughts of desperate and broken people. When people are going through hard times, it is vital to have supportive and caring people at hand, for we are to loan our strength to others in their time of need.
While I’m not as “springy” as I used to be, for the purposes of relaxation I still enjoy building and fixing things, shoveling snow, doing outdoor work, and even playing the occasional video game. This year, I’m particularly excited about starting a new project at the cottage: building a custom storage shed. Hopefully the weather cooperates, and nothing happens to take over my schedule. For me, working with my hands and being outside really helps my mental, spiritual,
live with a spirit of fear”. Rather, I’m going to do my best to trust God, help others, all the while holding on to my faith, which speaks of a world to come in which there is no more suffering, tears, or death.
Why such a glum start to an article?
Sometime today, TFS Communications will take a call where the very worst thing has happened in that person/family’s life. After the call is taken, a fire crew will arrive at that person or family’s door, and they will witness for themselves what the communications call-taker heard described on the phone.
looking for public domain pieces that speak to me. Over the last year, I’ve collected more than 400 works of art that rotate throughout the day on a three minute schedule - the equivalent of about 20 hours of play time. It’s become a refreshing part of my daily rhythm.
Let me tell you about a couple of my favorites so far.
a huge difference.
I’ve always found the account of Job and his sufferings to be a bit unsettling; particularly the line, “What I feared has come upon me...” I have a vivid imagination. It would not be healthy for me to ponder the worst things that could happen. So, how do I process what he said? Instead of burrowing down the rabbit hole of “what could go wrong”, I live with the understanding that, “Yes, life is fragile, bad things can and do happen, but I’m not going to
As awful a day as it is for that person and family, such is what the TFS, as a whole, is about. Helping people who might be having the worst day of their lives.
Despite some of the horrible things heard and seen, and the toll that it often takes, it is a great privilege to come into a person’s or family’s life with the intention of helping them in their darkest hour. While it might not be possible to take away or even reduce someone else’s pain or trial, how and who we are in those moments that we are with them is of vital importance; the dignity and respect afforded, the compassion shown, the patience given, and going that extra mile. These things, which are called “soft skills,” can make
One piece I really like is Saudade (1899) by Almeida Júnior. The painting shows a woman dressed in black, standing in the light of a window, her shawl covering her mouth and chin, somberly reading a letter. Her face is so full of emotion — you can almost feel the weight of whatever distressing news the letter contains. “Saudade” is a Portuguese word that expresses a deep, emotional longing for someone or something that’s no longer present — with the quiet acceptance that whoever or whatever is on your heart might never be seen or experienced again. I was drawn to this piece not just because of the emotion it carries, but also because grief and loss are universal experiences. We’ve all been there at some point, or will be. It’s at these points I’m particularly reminded of my frailty and need of God’s help along the way.
To attend a scene prepared (and this involves all members of the TFS) and to leave a scene having done what was realistically possible given the circumstances, there can be great comfort in just having done that. Sometimes, one’s consolation will be this: “I/We did our best in a difficult situation.” That’s a win! To think to oneself, “I entered into this person’s life on what was their or their family’s worst day. I did what I trained for, and I did my best. I followed to the best of my abilities and my training. I treated the person and the family with respect, patience, and compassion. I worked well with my team. While I can’t change what happened or take away their pain, I did what I could.”
As already noted, I’ve found that as the years continue to go by, I’ve had to make a number of small adjustments — both in what I do and how I go about doing it. Things like my eyesight, endurance, and coordination don’t always cooperate the way they used to. Such things are normal, of course — but accepting it? That’s the harder part. About a year ago, I discovered a new hobby that’s really surprised me with how much I enjoy it. After some conversation with my wife, we picked up a Frame TV — a screen that doubles as digital art when it’s not in use. One of the things that drove this purchase was my love for classic artwork… and my not-so-classic budget. So, at no cost to myself, I started scrolling through artrelated communities on Reddit,
Another painting that I just happened upon is Lunchtime (1903) by Pío Collivadino. It shows a group of men on their break at a rustic worksite — no
phones, no tables, just a moment of pause in the middle of the day. Some are reading, some laughing, one is smoking a pipe, and another looks deep in thought. What struck me was the sense of camaraderie. You can tell these guys don’t mind being around each other. They’re just together. It reminded me of the kind of fellowship many of you experience on shift or at the station — simple, but meaningful. Collecting art digitally has become a small but meaningful way I reset and clear my mind. It’s also reminded me how creative and gifted people are. I find it amazing how God equips each of us in different ways to bless, encourage, and inspire others. These painters lived over a century ago, but their work still reaches people today — including me. And it reminds me that each of us, in our own way, can be used by God to encourage someone else — maybe even without knowing it. Thanks for reading. I hope you’re finding new ways to recharge too. Take care, have a great day and thanks for all you do.
Helping, and being with people during difficult times, is both a privilege and a burden. Every member of the TFS family is a vital part of this. We are all working towards the same end/mission. As for the burden of service, it is impossible to “care without wearing”. Carrying our own load, plus that of others, necessitates monitoring and looking after ourselves so that our attitudes stay good and our mind, body and soul remain in a place which allows us to thrive, enjoy life, and continue to serve others. So please, look after yourself, and as you are able, ‘loan your strength’ to others in their time of need. Thanks for all you do!
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Operational Events (the last five years)
3 Bridlington Street, Scarborough, Ontario M1H2L2
Wayne Bridger President Paul Moffatt Secretary Eric Motton Treasurer
Greetings All!
As we put this issue together, some of our members have just returned from attending many events associated with the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Holland. We have one item from a recent adventure and will have more of that content in our next issue.
Last issue, we shared all the changes we were contemplating and the plan for implementation. Not to suggest that all the work put into planning is easy, sometimes the actual “making it happen” part can be just as much of a challenge, sometimes more. Our first membership meeting of this year was a big hit. We had the biggest attendance since 2018. We are hoping that some of that increase can be attributed to the new format. We had a few hitches, but we were able to deal with them on the fly and make the meeting work. We began
For those who are following our “Project Not Forgotten”, you will know that of the six Toronto Firefighters lost in WW-1, we were only able to visit five last year. We are happy to report that we were able to visit our last member earlier this month in Belgium. This will conclude the group from WW-1.
TFFWVA Membership
Our membership drive is continuous. If you’re interested in becoming a member, feel free to contact us at tffwva@gmail.com. The dues ($25.00) are payable annually. Consider becoming a member!
Don’t forget to follow our Social Media feeds:
On The web: www.tffwva.ca
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TFFWVA
On Twitter: @TFFWVA
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tffwva
with the usual committee updates, including some of the events that our new Social Group is looking at. In the last issue, we reported that they had attended several events at the Royal Canadian Military Institute and had an outing at the Haida and Canadian Warplane Heritage. We are working on more similar outings for this year.
Our first Guest Speaker was our own Chris McCune. We think it important to showcase our own talents along with others from the outside. Chris gave a great presentation of his service with the South African Defense Force and had a Q & A session at the conclusion. We adjourned the meeting and broke for lunch. We think that we have a good new format and will continue the same in the future.
Looking back, 2024 was a good and busy year for us. The Colour Guard had an increasing number of parades. To illustrate that, here’s a basic run down:
1- 29 Feb@1100 Celebration of Life for Gail Fry - Ajax Ontario
2- 17 Mar@1100 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade -Toronto
3- 05 Apr@1300 TFS Inspectors Graduation - TFA
4- 31 May @1200 Recruit Graduation - TFA
5- 01 Jun@1300 Celebration of life for George Evans - Pickering Ontario
6- 06 Jun@1000 D-Day Memorial - Coronation Park
7- 09 Jun@1000 D-Day Memorial (Legion Zone - St Johns Norway)
8- 11 Jun@1030 LODD Service for Capt. Paul Manning
9- 19 Jun@0930 LODD Service for Capt. Sean Coles
10- 23 Jun@0900 TFS Memorial Service Harbourfront
11- 27 Jul@1000 Korean War Memorial - Meadowvale Cemetery
12- 08 Jul@1000 Colour Guard Social Event (HMCS Haida & Canadian Warplane Heritage)
13- 09 Jul@1000 Peacekeepers Day Parade - Angus Ontario
14- 17 Aug@0900 Warriors Day Parade (We were the 1ST Place John Labatt Trophy)
15- 22 Aug@1130 TFFWVA Recruit Class Presentation - TFA
16- 12 Sep@1200 LODD Service for Robert Smith - Port Perry Ontario
17- 11 Sep@1800 Colour Guard Social Event (Royal Canadian Military Institute Dinner)
18- 21 Sep@1130 Funeral Service for Trevor Harris - Brantford Ontario
19- 22 Sep@1700 9th Annual Hero’s of Suicide (Branch 10)
20- 03 Oct@ 1300 Relinquishing of Command Ceremony (Chief Pegg) - TFS HQ (Not a parade)
21- 05 Oct@ 0900 Toronto Fire’s 150th Anniversary Celebration - TFA
22- 06 Oct@ 1230 Ontario Fire Fighters Memorial - Queens Park
23- 09 Oct@ 0900 City Council Chambers - City Hall (Not a parade)
24- 10 Oct@ 1900 Walk through - Captain B.S. Hutcheson VC Armoury 66 Birmingham St.
25- 15 Oct@ 1900 Colour Party Rehearsal - Same Location
26- 22 Oct@ 1900 Colour Party Rehearsal - Same Location
27- 27 Oct@ 1400 Colour Consecration Ceremony - Same Location
28- 30 Oct@ 1000 Funeral Service for Kelly Smith - Orillia
29- 07 Nov@ 1800 TFFWVA 87th Remembrance Banquet - RCL Branch 527
30- 11 Nov@ 0700 Remembrance Day Ceremonies (Prospect Cemetery, East York & City Hall)
31- 14 Nov@1800 Islington Golf Club Remembers D-Day
32- 13 Dec@1100 Funeral Service for Peter Harvey - Newmarket Ontario
Again, for those following the project, you will know that we have 323 WW-2 Veterans on our list and all things being equal, we only had one loss. On the 29th of May 1944, while serving in the RCAF in Dartmouth Nova Scotia, Toronto Firefighter, Robert Bertram Donaghy, suffered a fatal heart attack. He was buried here in Toronto at St James Cemetery, and members of our Colour Guard will make a visit in the coming months.
We think it miraculous that we only lost one member during WW-2.
We will continue fine tuning the changes we’ve made so far, and we hope that we are on the right track. We are working on some constitution refinements, along with the work that our new Dress and Deportment Committee is working on. We will report on their progress in future issues. We hope that everyone has a good summer season.
Your Exec
TFFWVA
The Next TFFWVA membership Meeting will be announced later this spring. Please watch our social media platforms for the updates. Our meetings are aways held quarterly at the Royal Canadian Legion - Branch 527 Wilson, 948 Sheppard Ave W, North York, ON M3H 2T6.
All are welcome.
BY STUART WEST, ACTING CAPTIAN, FIRE STATION 145-C
uite often when I talk to firefighters about fire investigations, the subject of undetermined fire cause comes up. Fire investigations are intricate and multifaceted processes aimed at determining the origin and cause of a fire. However, it is not uncommon for these investigations to conclude with the cause being classified as "undetermined." This outcome arises from various challenges and complexities inherent in fire investigations. Understanding why this happens can provide insights into the arduous task of fire investigators and the nature of fire incidents.
Classifying a fire cause as undetermined should never be viewed as a failure. Rather, an undetermined fire cause should be viewed as an affirmation of the investigative process.
Assigning a fire cause that is not supported by the evidence, would be a major error. This type of mistake can have long lasting repercussions not only to the credibility of an individual investigator, but to the larger organization that they represent. Many novice investigators feel that classifying a fire as undetermined is somehow a slight on their individual abilities as an investigator. To the contrary, an investigator that is not afraid to be honest and forthright regarding the lack of evidence in an investigation, should be held in high esteem. A fire report must detail the evidence that was used to support the investigators findings. If the supporting evidence is lacking, or if the scientific method was somehow circumvented in order to steer the investigation to a single narrative, then the investigation was corrupted. Any conclusions based on a flawed investigation are not scientifically valid and should be discarded.
Fires are destructive forces that can obliterate evidence and make it difficult to ascertain their exact origins. The intense heat and flames can consume physical clues, leaving behind little to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the fire. As such, the primary challenge for fire investigators lies in piecing together the evidence that has often been severely compromised or destroyed.
Fire dynamics, which encompass the behavior, movement, and growth of fire, are complex and influenced by numerous variables. These variables include the materials involved, the architecture of the building, ventilation patterns, and human actions. The intricate interplay of these factors can make it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of the fire. Even with advances in fire science and technology, the dynamic nature of fire remains a significant obstacle.
The collection and analysis of evidence in fire investigations are fraught with difficulties. Investigators must sift through debris, which may contain remnants of the materials that contributed to the fire. Identifying and preserving these fragments is crucial, yet often problematic, due to the extent of damage caused by the fire. The meticulous process of evidence collection can be hindered by the chaos and destruction left in the fire's wake.
Witness testimony, including firefighters, is a vital component of fire investigations, providing firsthand accounts that can help reconstruct the events leading up to and during the fire. However, witnesses may be traumatized or have fragmented memories, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of their testimonies. Additionally, the absence of witnesses can leave investigators
with limited information to work with, further complicating the determination of the fire's cause.
While technological advancements have enhanced fire investigation techniques, limitations still exist. Tools such as thermal imaging cameras, chemical analysis, and fire modeling software have improved the ability to analyze fire scenes. However, these technologies may not always be able to provide definitive answers, especially in cases where the evidence is minimal or ambiguous. Often, crucial evidence of ignitable liquids is consumed in the fire, leading negative laboratory results, despite a strong suspicion that ignitable liquids were used to initiate or spread the fire.
Human factors and errors can also contribute to the undetermined classification of fire causes. Fire investigators are highly trained professionals, but human error is an inherent risk in any investigative process. Misinterpretation of evidence, oversight, and biases can affect the conclusions drawn.
External influences, such as environmental conditions and external interventions, can further complicate fire investigations. Weather conditions, such as rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations, can alter the fire scene and obscure evidence. Additionally, the actions taken by firefighters to extinguish the fire and overhaul the area can inadvertently disturb or destroy crucial evidence, making it harder for investigators to ascertain the cause.
Legal and regulatory constraints can also play a role in the undetermined classification of fire causes. Investigators must adhere to strict protocols and guidelines, which can limit their ability to explore alternative hypotheses or unconventional methods. Furthermore, the legal implications of determining a fire's cause can be significant, influencing the thoroughness and direction of the investigation.
NFPA 921, Guide for Fire and Explosions Investigations 2024 Edition, paragraph, 19.6.5.1. states,
“In circumstances where all hypotheses have been rejected, or if two or more hypotheses cannot be rejected, the only choice for the investigator is to conclude that the fire cause, or specific causal factors, is undetermined. It is improper to base hypotheses on the absence of any supportive evidence. That is, it is
improper to opine a specific fire cause, ignition source, or fuel that has no evidence to support it even though all other such hypothesized elements were eliminated.
The frequent assignment of "undetermined" as the cause of a fire in investigations highlights the myriad challenges faced by fire investigators. The destructive nature of fire, the complexity of fire dynamics, evidence collection difficulties, witness-related issues, technological limitations, human factors, external influences, and legal constraints all contribute to the difficulty of pinpointing the exact cause of a fire. Despite these challenges, fire investigators continue to strive for accuracy and precision, often working in arduous conditions to uncover the truth. Understanding these complexities not only underscores the importance of fire prevention and safety measures but also appreciates the intricate work of those dedicated to solving fire-related mysteries.
Fire investigations are difficult at the best of times. Sometimes the cause may seem obvious at first glance. However, once the investigation has been initiated, other evidence may be discovered that turns the investigation in a completely different direction. No matter how small or complex each individual investigation is, the scientific method must always be followed. This helps ensure that there are no shortcuts taken and the investigative process is free from personal bias and assumptions.
From someone who has worked as both an operations firefighter and an investigator, I have a great deal of respect for those who are tasked with sifting through the fire debris looking for answers. It’s not for the faint of heart and it’s dirty, very unglamorous work and usually goes unrecognized. Stay safe!
More often than not we hear of reference to work ethic, though not so much to “rest ethic”. The two really go hand in hand, especially for roles in the fire service. Between the 24-hour shift in Operations, various shifts in other divisions, covering multiple roles, involvement in committee work, additional duties as required and oh yea, our busy personal lives – rest is a must! My question is, do you get enough? Do you take time out of your busy day to “smell the roses”, take a mental health break, be aware or take a breath - remember boxed breathing from R2MR? Work requires recovery, and to recover, the body and mind require rest and quality sleep. In this line of work, it begs the question whether we get either, especially since quality sleep doesn’t exist during the 24-hour shift. How important it is though? People tell me, “That’s what retirement is for.” Others say they are so busy in retirement there’s no time for rest. Without rest or sleep, the body breaks down and performance suffers, the mind suffers from lack of clarity and focus, and illness lingers. Essentially, we wear out, no matter what our role is. This is no way to live well, and quality of life is important.
Different people need different things to achieve rest/relax/refresh – e.g. for some it’s social time, for others it’s alone time. It is important to be mindful of what works best for you.
Sleep hygiene refers to the healthy habits and practices that promote restful, quality sleep. It encompasses both environmental factors and behavioral aspects that contribute to better sleep. The challenges of shift work are clear. One of the principles of sleep hygiene is consistent sleep time, which is impossible with shift work. But there are many things you can do – e.g. darken the room, have no tech in bed, and prioritize sleep.
Below are two links to CIPSRT (Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment) and IAFF Sleep Seminar reports, followed by an article on rest:
Sounding the Alarm Clock: Addressing Sleep Deprivation in the Fire Service (IAFF)
https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com/continuing-education/sounding-the-alarm-clock-addressing-sleep-deprivation-in-the-fire-service
Running on empty: Answering your questions about fatigue and burnout among first responders and other public safety personnel (CIPSRT)
https://youtu.be/8wy6_AKm-RQ
So, whenever you can, and for as long as you can, get the rest you need and deserve.
We’re happy to introduce content from Crackyl: Fire-
Hard work must be balanced with ‘hard’ rest to maintain productivity and avoid burnout
Dedication to hard work is great, but how’s your dedication to rest? Our culture, and especially certain careers in our society, place great value on hard work, pushing through, and sucking it up when you’re tired. Resting is often treated as a luxury, or even as a sign of weakness. But more and more evidence shows our capacity to work hard, no matter the task, is dictated as much by our resting as by our training. While many of us take pride in a strong work ethic, perhaps it’s just as important to develop a strong rest ethic.
The Lesson from the Ring
One of the strongest, toughest people in the world learned about the strength and power of rest the hard way. In 2016, UFC champion Conor McGregor was on the rise, a heavy favorite to beat Nate Diaz. McGregor lost. In the second round, he visibly ran out of gas and Diaz overwhelmed him. The story goes that when asked if he was training harder for his next fight, McGregor answered “No.” He determined his exhaustion wasn’t from a lack of training, it was from not enough rest. In spite of his intense training, his lack of sufficient rest left him unable to train at the level he needed to boost his cardio fitness. So, no amount of additional training was going to get him there.
The Foundation for Performance
What McGregor learned, and what’s so often overlooked, is that rest is the foundation for better training and higher performance, whatever the task. Fortunately, we can apply this lesson to life outside the UFC ring. If we replace the word “training” with “work,” we can consider the value of rest to enhance performance, and even satisfaction, in whatever work we do. Training
for a marathon, taking on overtime, building a deck at home. These are just a few examples of work that benefits from focused, hard effort and pushing through discomfort. But without enough rest, those training runs will be too slow, the overtime will be dangerous, and that deck won’t be square. The lesson isn’t that we shouldn’t work hard or train hard. The lesson is that a work ethic without an equal rest ethic will undermine the hard work and probably leave you defeated.
In the fire service, most tour schedules already follow a version of focused hard work followed by rest, or at least not-work. One problem is firefighters often use their time off of work to do other work, some of it not so restful. But instead of focusing on how much you’re working, or “over” working, consider if you’re really resting. And in this case, time with family and friends, and even alone, can be an important part of restorative rest. When a family is fraying because one spouse is almost never home, notice that the remedy is time at home, not just a reduction in overtime. So take a look at your training, your work, anything you put your time and energy into. Are you rested enough that you can really give it your all? By focusing on rest, you reorient your point of view. If a strong rest ethic is your foundation, then the work you do, the training, the overtime, the deck, whatever it is, that work will yield greater results. You come to the work truly restored, ready, and energized. You can work harder, with more focus, and more awareness of your performance and limits. Here’s a slogan you can use to build you and your community’s rest ethic: “You can’t overtrain, but you can under rest.”
Chaplains
Ted
Tahseen
Daniel
Todd
Ted
February 18, 2025 – June 23, 2025
James Albert Reynolds February 21, 2025
James Leonard Ward February 22, 2025
Elgon Thomas March 11, 2025
Kenneth Condie March 12, 2025
James George Abdee March 29, 2025
Robert Wilson April 9, 2025
Robert John Wilson April 13, 2025
Keith M. Ralph April 16, 2025
David Thomas Macdonald April 16, 2025
Fredrick H. Marks April 20, 2025
Arthur Victor Webster April 20, 2025
William George Craig April 26, 2025
Richard Thomas Turner April 28, 2025
Kenneth Howard Snelgrove April 29, 2025
Donald Kent Ball May 1, 2025
Gordon W. Stewart May 12, 2025
Robert Scott McMillian May 17, 2025
Bruce Thomas Barker May 22, 2025
Peter Gresser May 25, 2025
Joseph Leonard Boyd June 13, 2025
Robert Franklin Thornton June 12, 2025
Robert Allan Smith June 18, 2025
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.
On June 2, 2025, Retired Captain Patrick “Patty” McManus passed away with his family and loved ones by his side at the age of 67, after a brave battle with cancer. Brother McManus began his career with the Scarborough Fire Department on September 15, 1981. He served with pride on A-Platoon throughout his entire career, working at Stations 244, 245, and 222, before being promoted to the Hazmat unit at Station 145. Captain McManus was a well-known and respected figure within the fire service and the community.
He was a peer that many members gravitated to; he led by example and shared his knowledge to help better those around him. For many years, he was a proud presence at the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, always seen wearing the green and representing the Irish heritage with pride. On February 29, 2016, after more than 34 years of dedicated service, Brother McManus retired from the Toronto Fire Department, leaving a memorable impression on those he worked with and befriended over the years.
In Honour of Captain Patrick McManus, a Memorial Plaque will be hung at TFS Station 145.
Retired Firefighter Joseph Paul Francis Xaviar Bonanno began his career with the City of York Fire Department in August of 1971. For most of his career, he worked with his crew at TFS Fire Station 442 on A Platoon, and after more than 35 years of dedicated service, he retired on May 31, 2007, at Station 422.
Brother Bonanno was extremely proud to be a part of the fire community. For his entire career, he not only focused on being a good firefighter, but also a good person. He was a man who lived by a moral code of treating others with care and compassion. He always helped where he could, spoke kindly to others and listened when it was needed. He truly cherished the bonds he formed with his brothers and sisters on the trucks and within the fire service. This way of life was also reflected in his personal life. Joe loved his family dearly and would do anything for them. Family was always his number one focus; they were his world.
On June 4th, 2025, at the age of 75, we lost Brother Bonanno to a battle against an occupational illness that he couldn’t fight anymore. Surrounded by his family and close loved ones, Joe was able to let go and say goodbye like the gentleman he was. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.
When I joined the Toronto Fire Department (as we were called in 1981), it was with the knowledge that I had a secure, full-time job that would carry me through to retirement. I knew there would be challenges and forks in the road, but I felt secure in knowing that I was a member of a recognized defined benefit (DB) pension plan that would be there when I reached the end of my career. Having never had a job with a pension plan, my surprise came when I received my first pay cheque and I discovered that I would also be a partner in paying for my future benefits. As time passed, my knowledge of accounting, budgeting and how pensions worked increased, as did my payments into the OMERS Pension Plan, matched of course by my employer’s contributions.
A pension plan is essentially deferred income. Your contributions are matched by the employer and are squirrelled away, earning interest and growing to provide you a secure, dignified retirement. And guess what? It works. Because pension plan earnings are protected from income tax until the money is paid out, studies have shown that only about 30% of the benefits you receive from your pension plan come from the contributions. The vast majority of your benefits come from return on investments made by the plan. That is why defined benefit pension plans have such a positive impact on the economy. Retirees on DB pensions spend their pension income, pay taxes, and generate economic activity in their communities.
As a retired firefighter, you are a member of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System, more commonly known as OMERS. You are not alone. Municipal workers across Ontario are members of OMERS making it one of the largest DB pension plans in the world. OMERS has gone through many transformations over the years, not the least of which is asset growth and diversification, but today I want to focus on a very specific part of OMERS, the OMERS Sponsors Corporation.
OMERS consists of two distinct corporations with very specific roles and duties. The largest by far is the Administration Corporation (AC) which deals with the day-to-day business of OMERS. The administrative side includes the distribution of pensions, collecting contributions from municipalities and members, paying the bills and keeping the lights on. The AC also includes the investment operations, which has offices around the world to make sure that the returns operate at the highest level in short-, medium- and long-term investments.
Who is the Sponsors Corporation (SC) and what are they responsible for? The SC Board is made up of appointees from various sponsor groups of the plan. Both employer and employee groups are represented. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the City of Toronto, along with other employer groups, have appointees on the board. Employee groups such as CUPE, OPFFA, PAO, as well as other employee groups, have appointees on the board. The Retirees Group also has an appointee on the board. The Retiree Group consists of the Municipal Retirees Organization Ontario (MROO), the Ontario Retired Fire Fighters Association (ORFFA) and the Police Pensioners Association of Ontario (PPAO). In 2022, I was honoured to be appointed to the SC Board by the Retiree Group.
The role of the SC Board is distinctly different than the AC Board. Where the AC has a distinct fiduciary duty to each and every member (both active and retired), the SC has a fiduciary duty to the plan itself. It is the duty of the SC to ensure the plan is sustainable, affordable and meaningful, and that a balance is maintained between these three elements through a continuous process of reviewing the relationship of contributions, benefits and the economic health of the plan. The plan must remain affordable to contributors, meaningful in its current and future benefits, and sustainable against the various economic headwinds that we experience with increasing frequency. What do I mean by this balance? OMERS sums it up this way:
A pension plans is sustainable if it can consistently, over the long term and across generations of members, deliver a meaningful, valuable and appropriate range of benefits to members, within a range of costs that is affordable to stakeholders.
The SC Board has a fiduciary responsibility to the plan itself. So, although each member is appointed to the board by an employer or employee group, their fiduciary duty is to the plan not the group appointing them. The SC Board, by its mandate, ensures the plan is maintaining a balance and providing benefits to members now and for the future.
Don’t forget to follow our Social Media Feeds: On The web: https://www.retiredtorontofirefighters.org/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TFSRetirees On Twitter : https://x.com/tfsretirees
Trayce Shaw - traycegshaw@gmail.com
Our primary mission is to save lives. To do this effectively, we must prioritize immediate primary search, fire attack, and coordinated ventilation. We should look to optimize our operations for those we serve. Hopefully, the following article will shed some light on a tactic that has yielded positive results.
Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search (VEIS) is a targeted search aimed at rescuing victims quickly. Members enter a building through a window to isolate the space from heat and harmful gases and remove any victims through the entry window. Using this tactic, we can gain immediate access to areas where victims are most likely trapped and provide a prompt exit from the IDLH environment. VEIS requires crew coordination, knowledge of building construction, and a full understanding of fire dynamics.
By entering through a window and isolating the space, we create a safer environment for us and a more survivable one for victims. Ventilating the compartment and isolating it from the fire significantly reduces heat and toxic gases, while increasing visibility. Research by the UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute (FSRI) shows that isolating the space from the fire and its flow
path, pre-suppression, drastically reduces exposure to heat and toxins for both victims and firefighters.
While removing a victim through a door is an option, it may not always improve survivability. A study done by UL found that, pre-suppression, isolating a room from fire and toxic gases—even if slower— greatly increases survival chances. Prioritize limiting exposure over speed, and consider both rescue time and environmental conditions before making a decision.
Our textbook says, “Quickly check likely victim locations and all affected areas”. The data shows the most likely victim location to be the bedroom, regardless of the time of day. A survey of over 4,000 rescues confirms this. This insight is particularly relevant when considering the "Close Before You Doze" campaign by the OFM, which encourages people to close their bedroom doors before sleeping. With this in mind, bedrooms should be heavily targeted for VEIS operations. -NFPA & www.FirefighterRescueSurvey.com
According to data from the Clackamas Search Manual & the Firefighter Rescue Survey:
• 24% of victims were located by Fire Attack, with a 59% survival rate.
• 56% of victims were located by Primary Search, with a 62% survival rate.
This highlights the critical role of primary search in improving the chances of victim survival.
Victim survival rate is highly dependent on how quickly they are located. The National Institute of Health tells us that for every minute that passes between cardiac arrest & CPR, survival rate decreases by 7-10%. By reducing our time to the interior, we improve their chances of survival significantly.
There are typically three positions in a VEIS operation:
This Firefighter is responsible for positioning a ladder (14’, 24’, 35’, etc.) to the window with minimal assistance, to allow their crew time to mask up. The ladder should be set up for rescue, to improve safety and ease victim removal. After placement, they stage tools (like a NY Hook or Halligan) on the ladder for the Search Firefighter. Once these tasks are done, their main role is to secure (butt) the ladder.
This Firefighter brings tools from the apparatus to the VEIS location, masks up quickly, and climbs the ladder for entry. Using tools staged by the Ladder Firefighter, they ventilate the window—breaking high first then working down in a “Z” pattern—then remove the sash by striking down and toward them on either side of it. They clear the remaining glass with a tool along the frame. Before entering, a quick scan with a TIC can help assess room layout, door location, heat levels, and potential victims. This DOES NOT replace the need for a Primary Search.
After ventilating the window, the Search Firefighter stays low in the frame away from heat. Before sounding the floor, they sweep beneath the window using a Hook or Halligan in a wide semi-circle. This is to avoid injuring any trapped occupants by locating them before sounding the floor. They then sound the floor by striking it with a tool or applying body weight to ensure it's safe for entry.
The Search Firefighter places their tool against the windowsill to mark the exit point. They then enter using the Controlled Headfirst method—or step through if the window allows—while staying low. In a Controlled Headfirst entry, they reach down to the floor, then guide their body through carefully, flaring their legs against the window frame to slow and control the descent.
After entering, the Search Firefighter quickly locates the room’s door, performs a “Life, Fire Layout” down the hallway for victims, then closes the door. Closing the door is crucial it cuts off the flow path to the vented window. Once isolated, they begin a primary search of the room. The Search Firefighter can also update Command on interior conditions.
The Captain remains at the sill to scan the room for victims and doors with a TIC. VEIS is typically a single-firefighter entry operation, however additional members can join the search. Consider the size of the room and how adding members could impact egress in an emergency. An officer at the sill can maintain crew accountability, monitor radio traffic, and assist with victim removal. A searching officer can make real-time decisions in the IDLH, help move obstacles or victims and speed up victim extrication.
Once the room has been cleared, all members descend the ladder. This process can be repeated as many times as necessary. The Search and Ladder Firefighter can be rotated to minimize fatigue and maximize air availability.
This article offers a basic overview of VEIS. A more detailed document is available. Please email me. Thank you to Captain Maybrey, Terry Leimonis and Christopher Downham for providing their knowledge. Without them this article wouldn’t have the street level experience needed to reinforce the message behind it.
We only improve if we track data. If you make a rescue, PLEASE fill out the Firefighter Rescue Survey. An Ontario specific survey is currently being developed, Firefighter Rescues Ontario. It will be the primary source of data for rescues in our own backyard.
It was an Election Year!
Please join us in welcoming the new TPFFA 2025 New Executive Board:
President Mike Smith
Secretary Treasurer Chris Sornberger
Vice President Justin D’Aloisio
North Command:
Dan Bellio
Bob Burland
Geoff Berenz
Travis Mathews
James McCreight
Ryan Morrison East Command:
Toronto Fire Fighters Families of the Fallen (TFFFF) Spring Luncheon Event
This Spring, the loved ones of our fallen members gathered to support each other. This family group welcomes all family members who have experienced loss of a loved one, from both LODD and death from other causes.
Justin Gaspini
Rob Kular
West Command:
Matt Fabbro
Tori Goulart
Ryan Grech South Command: Steven D’Aloisio
Annual Retirement Dinner & Dance
TPFFA celebrated their 2024 Retirees this Spring. It was a great celebration with old friends, crews and family. Congratulations to all our Retirees.
Jr. Firefighters enjoying their first few days of Summer!
My family and I would like to thank the membership for all the support we received after the passing of our son Ryan. The outpouring of support was overwhelming.
I can not even count the number of messages I received from friends and colleagues on the job. So many people reached out by text, email, message, and phone, and for this I am extremely grateful.
So many friends from TFS attended the visitation and we were touched by this supportive gesture.
Thank You.
Josh, Tracey, Marty and Mason.
If you have photos of your crew or a recent event you’d like to share with the membership, please email Suzanne Boss at the Association Office: sboss@torontofirefighters.org
Paul Kwiatkowski’s Award
Kings Coronation Medal
Ceremony – Congratulations
Toronto Fire Captain Paul Kwiatkowski
Brother Kwiatkowski was awarded the
King Charles III’s Coronation Medal.
TPFFA Family Picnic at
Canada’s Wonderland
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Charity Golf Tournament at Royal Woodbine
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Toronto Labour Day Parade
Monday, September 1, 2025
Canadian Fallen Fire Fighter
Memorial in Ottawa
Sunday, September 7, 2025
IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter
Memorial in Colorado Springs
September 20/21, 2025
National Truth & Reconciliation Day
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
PINK Campaign
October 2025
Ontario Fire Fighter
Memorial at Queen’s Park, Toronto
Sunday, October 5, 2025
Movember Campaign
November 2025
Remembrance Day Ceremonies
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Annual Children’s Christmas Party @ Variety Village
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Platoon C Family Day at Station 231.
This crew honoured the daily support system we all have…our Families!
