2019

An n u a l

R e p o r t

N I A G A R A - O N - T H E - L A K EF I R E & E M E R G E N C Y S E R V I C E S

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Fire & Emergency

Services

1593 Four Mile Creek Rd.

PO Box 100, Virgil , ON

L0S 1T0

905-468-3266

firedepartment@notl .com

Photo Courtesy of The Lake Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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AS S O C IAT I O N E V E N T S

I N C I D E N T S O F S I G N I F I CAN C E T RA I N I N G D I V I S I O N

Message From the Lord Mayor &Interim CAO Remembering Our Fallen 2019 Highlights Fire Chief's Message Executive Summary Your Fire Service Appreciation Night Prevention & Public Education

Training Division 2019 Recruitment Fleet & Equipment Additions Stabilization & Growth Plan Community Engagement Association Events Incidents of Significance Looking Ahead - 2020 Initiatives

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“Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices is a solid foundation our communitycan consistently rely on. Our volunteerfirefighters show up for citizens on what is oftenthe worst day of their lives, putting themselves inharm’s way to ensure their safety. With healthand safety measures a top priority andprevention and education a keen focus, they arededicated to safeguarding their members whilemaintaining an environment upon which all whoreside in, conduct business in or visit Niagara-on-the-Lake can feel secure. As you will seefrom the annual report, they excel atprofessionalism, proactively streamliningoperations to ensure effective and efficientservice. Town Council and I will continue tosupport our Fire Department so they cancontinue to support our residents, businessesand visitors.”

- Betty DiseroLord Mayor

MESSAGE FROMTHE LORD MAYOR& INTERIM CAO

“Our firefighters are a key part of the Town’s

success. They protect and safeguard

residents, visitors, and property owners

through community risk reduction and

emergency response. The challenges

presented by a growing population, increasing

density, and surges in seasonal demand for

service must be addressed efficiently and

effectively. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake

is committed to sustainable, predictable

funding that allows us to maintain safe

equipment, apparatus and facilities to support

our volunteer firefighters’ service to our

citizens.”

- Sheldon Randall Interim CAO

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services wouldlike to acknowledge andremember the passing ofCaptain Mike Vriens, whopassed away July 27th,2019 after a long andcourageous battle withcancer. Captain Vriens served as amember of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices for 34 years,proving to be a valuableand integral member ofStation 1 in the Old TownDistrict which he served. Mike is remembered byfamily, friends, and fellowfirefighters for a lifetime offriendship and service inthe town he loved so much.Captain Mike Vriens will beincredibly missed, butnever forgotten.

R E M E M B E R I N GC A P T A I N M I K E V R I E N S

2019HIGHLIGHTS

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During 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Serviceswas involved in numerous events consisting of EmergencyResponse, Fire Prevention, and Public Education. Thefollowing sections highlight some of the manyaccomplishments made over the previous year.

2019HIGHLIGHTS

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198 ALARM ACTIVATIONS

This represents any call that was initially

dispatched as a remote alarm, or alarm

activation in either a commercial, or

residential occupancy.

153MOTOR VEHICLE

COLLISIONS

Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters

respond to a variety of locations for

MVCs ranging from residential

roadways, to the Garden City

Skyway.

30FIRE CALLS

Any report of a possible fire is

encompassed in this category. This

includes vehicle, structure, rubbish, and

brush fires.

642TOTAL INCIDENTS

This is the total number of incidents

Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters

responded to throughout 2019.

263 inspections were conducted acrossNiagara-on-the-Lake for compliance with theOntario Fire Code.

Responded to 642 emergencies,representing a 5.7% decrease compared to2018.

Performed over 12,000 hoursof training.

Educated 1150 children throughpresentations, events, workshops, and

displays.

Attended 253 homes as part of the SAFEHOME Residential Smoke & Carbon

Monoxide Alarm Program.

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2019 HIGHLIGHTS

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2019 HIGHLIGHTS

The above information displays the number of each call type andlocation Niagara-on-the Lake Fire & Emergency Services attended in2019. Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services tracksinformation regarding call types and locations to ensure data is thedriving force for any future fire protection service decisions. When itcomes to fire service data, visual representation is critical.

CALLS BY TYPE

This infographic breaks down the

percentage of calls that happened in

each of the five geographical areas

within Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Building off the data from the above

heat map, this provides greater detail

as to the station area where the

majority of incidents are taking place.

This heat map identifies locations thatNiagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency services responded toover the course of 2019. The brightercoloured locations on this maprepresent areas with a higher volumeof calls than the areas with blue, or nocolour. This heat map allows for informeddata driven decision making within thedepartment.

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2019 HIGHLIGHTS

HEAT MAPPING

CALLS BY STATION Old Town

Glendale

Virgil

Queenston

St. Davids

FIREHOUSE SOFTWARE

In 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire& Emergency Services beganutilizing Firehouse DatabaseManagement Software to trackstation response, training,incidents, and equipment.

FIRE CHIEF'SMESSAGE

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This report highlights many of the valuableinitiatives and programs that our staff andvolunteers contribute to daily, as well aspresents data and information on the deliveryof many of our critical services. Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services has arenewed focus on data and analysis, both ofwhich enable and inform the evidence-baseddecision-making process. Looking back, it has been an incrediblydemanding year but has also proven to be avery successful year. I am honoured to servealongside such hardworking andcompassionate firefighters that demonstratesuch commitment to their community. Furthermore, I am thankful for the ongoingsupport that we receive from Lord MayorDisero, Town Council, and Interim CAOSheldon Randall, without which we would beunable to deliver the excellent service that thepublic has come to expect. Council,residents, and firefighters alike can be proudof the community-focused, data-driven,outcome-focused, strategic-minded, wellorganized, properly equipped, and properlystaffed and trained fire department that wehave become. Sincerely, Nick Ruller, MAFire Chief & CEMC

On behalf of the men and women who

comprise Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &

Emergency Services, I am proud to

present our 2019 Annual Report. Niagara-

on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services’

staff and volunteers are committed to

providing exceptional customer service to

our residents and visitors through

community risk reduction and emergency

response. As Fire Chief, I am incredibly

proud of each member of our organization

as they work tirelessly toward continuous

personal and organizational improvement.

As the fastest growing municipality in the

Niagara Region, we are faced with

numerous challenges maintaining a

resilient and sustainable system that will

be there when the community needs us

the most. Some of these challenges

include increased training requirements

for volunteer firefighters, seasonal density

and demand issues related to tourism,

recruitment and retention of volunteer

firefighters, and ensuring that surge

capacity and capability exists to respond

to major events.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services delivers exceptional customer servicethrough community risk reduction and emergency response. This is achieved throughthe delivery of programs that focus on education, prevention and preparedness, andthe effective emergency response to fires, medical emergencies, and other rescues. We are a community of approximately 17,500 residents, however we welcome millionsof visitors each year. Each year millions of people from around the world travel here toexperience our Town’s unique charm and historic sites, including Fort George andBrock’s Monument; period-restored heritage homes, top-flight golf courses, breath-taking parks and gardens, as well as over 30 wineries and countless vineyards, manyof which produce our world-class wine. The Outlet Collection at Niagara attracts animpressive 6.5 million visitors annually alone. Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices delivers programs and services to enhance the safety and preparedness ofvisitors, citizens and businesses alike.

EXECUTIVESUMMARY

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Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services is continually challenged to meet theincreasing service demands that result from increased growth. In 2019, the departmentwelcomed 15 new recruit volunteer firefighters that began their 300 hour recruit trainingprogram. Recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters has been identified as oneof the most significant challenges facing the organization. Concerted effort has beenmade to identify retention strategies and develop implementation plans. Midway through2019, Council supported a four-year uniform distribution plan that will replace all stationwear uniforms for volunteers and phase in the issuance of dress uniforms that havenever been previously issued. With the increased growth, increased demand has resulted in the replacement offirefighting equipment and several fire apparatus. The replacement of a 1972 tankertruck located in the St.Davids community has improved the capacity for response inrural areas of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Fire Station 2 in St.Davids placed a 2019 Kenworth3000 gallon tanker into service early in 2019. In 2018, Council approved thereplacement of the 75’ aerial ladder truck that is currently located in the Glendale area.Rosenbauer America was the successful bidder and has begun the 18-month process tobuild a 101-foot aerial platform truck, due for delivery in mid 2020. The completion of thereplacement of the department's auto extrication tool cache occurred early in 2019 nowproviding the latest state-of-the-art battery powered ‘Jaws-of-life’ to every fire station inthe community. The replacement of outdated extrication tools with modern equipmentproves incredibly valuable as automobile accidents represent a significant portion of theemergency responses handled by Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters. Late in 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services Stabilization & GrowthPlan was released. This document, aligned with the 2019-2022 Council Strategic Plan,is intended to provide short-term direction during the development of a 5-10 year FireMaster Plan that will commence in 2020. The intent of this document is to measurablyimprove the provision of fire services over the next 18-month period while a Fire MasterPlan is completed. This Stabilization & Growth Plan identifies strategies to increaseretention, adequately resource key initiatives, drive critical organizational improvements,and enhance the department's ability to meet expectations of both internal and externalstakeholders. All members of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services work together to createan efficient and high-quality emergency service. With a dedication to public education,training, teamwork, and commitment to continuous improvement, it is Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services’ goal to become leaders in the provision of fireservices through the volunteer fire protection service delivery model.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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In 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services saw unprecedented turnoverinvolving all six permanent staff positions. This significant change, although provingchallenging, allowed the department to move forward and begin working on manyimportant projects and initiatives. In September of 2019, then Deputy Fire Chief Nick Ruller was promoted to Fire Chief &CEMC for the Town. Following Chief Ruller’s appointment, a ‘Stabilization & GrowthPlan’ was developed, outlining an 18-month plan intended to stabilize key staffpositions, and provide short-term direction for the Department while a more fulsome FireMaster Plan is completed to provide clear direction over the next decade.

YOUR FIRESERVICE

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Nicholas Ruller - Fire Chief & CEMCPhoto courtesy of The NOTL Local.

ADMINISTRATION

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YOUR FIRE SERVICE

In addition to the ‘Stabilization &Growth Plan’, a realignment of thereporting structure within Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices occurred that included thereclassification of Fire PreventionOfficer Jay Plato’s position to DeputyFire Chief – Community RiskReduction (DFC-CRR). Thisreclassification saw the responsibilityfor the Town’s EmergencyManagement Program shift to DFC-CRR, as well as newly definedresponsibilities related to DataAnalytics & Decision Support.

The Deputy Fire Chief position vacateddue to the promotion of Chief Rullerwas aligned to better focus onprofessional development, training,operations, health & safety, and fleet &facility maintenance. The Deputy FireChief – Operations & Training (DFC-OPS) position was posted in late 2019,seeing the promotion of then Station 2District Chief Darren Trostenko to theDFC-OPS position.

Jay Plato - Deputy Fire Chief - Community Risk Reduction

Darren Trostenko - Deputy Fire Chief - Operations & Training

ADMINISTRATION

Under the direction of the Deputy Fire Chief - Operations & Training, Training OfficerDarryl Janzen is responsible for the development, coordination, and delivery of trainingacross the organization. This includes a regular firefighter and officer trainingcurriculum, recruit firefighter training program, new equipment training, and high-anglerescue team training. Additionally, Training Officer Janzen researches, reviews,develops and implements policies, procedures, guidelines, techniques and equipment inorder to ensure current legislation, regulations, and standards are met. Under the direction of the Deputy Fire Chief – Community Risk Reduction, FirePrevention & Public Education Officer Brad Disher is responsible for coordinating all fireprevention activities, conducting fire safety inspections, enforcing the Ontario Fire Codeand other relevant legislation and standards, coordinating the delivery of publiceducation, conducting plans examination as it relates to fire safety, reviewing specialevent applications as it relates to fire safety, preparing court documents required forprosecution of fire code violations and investigating the cause and origin offires. Reporting to the Fire Chief, Administrative Assistant Matt van der Zalm assists staff witha wide variety of multifaceted administrative duties. Matt plays a key role in theestablishment of administrative processes, both internal and external communicationprojects, data management and reporting, asset management, and procurement.

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YOUR FIRE SERVICE

Left to right: Deputy Chief Jay Plato, Training Officer Darryl Janzen, Deputy Chief Darren Trostenko, Fire Chief & CEMC Nick Ruller,Administrative Assistant Matt van der Zalm, Fire Prevention & Public Education Officer Brad Disher.

Station 1 in Old Town was the busiest firestation in Niagara-on-the-Lake in 2019, with281 responses. The Old Town station iscomprised of a District Chief, an AssistantDistrict Chief, two Captains, twoLieutenants, and 19 Firefighters. Built in 2000, this 10,000 square foot facilityincludes a large training room, office spacefor station officers, a self-containedbreathing apparatus fill station, centralstorage, and three large double lengthdrive-through fire apparatus bays. Thisstation houses a pumper, a 100-foot aerialladder truck, and a light rescue squad.

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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STATION 1 - OLD TOWN

Left to Right: Assistant District Chief D. Kruitbosch, Lieutenant J. Edgecombe, Captain M. Mitchell, S. Baxter, A. Ward, J. Williams, J. Williams, N. Murphy, D. Gordon, M. Polgrabia, J. Froese, V. Martens.

Photo Courtesy of The NOTL Local

A photo of Station 1 located at 22 Anderson Lane, Niagara-on-the-Lake.

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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STATION 2 - ST. DAVIDSStation 2 in St. Davids responded to 189incidents in 2019. The St.Davids station iscomprised of a District Chief, AssistantDistrict Chief, one Captain, one Lieutenant,and 16 Firefighters. Built in 1984, this 7,000 square foot facilityincludes a training room, office, and three-bay apparatus area. This station houses 2pumpers and a 3000-gallon tanker.

Left to Right: Back Row: J. Plato, E. Trostenko, S. RoyMiddle Row: Captain D. Ignatczyk, Assistant District Chief D. Rigby, District Chief D. Trostenko, S. Lebrasseur, R. MacLeod, R. Ignatczyk

Front Row: M. Newman, M. Vujovich, Lieutenant D. Rooney

Photo Courtesy of The NOTL Local

A photo of Station 2 located at 745 Warner Road, St. Davids.

Station 3 in Virgil responded to 262incidents in 2019. The Virgil station iscomprised of a District Chief, an AssistantDistrict Chief, two Captains, twoLieutenants, and 19 Firefighters. Built in 2008, this 10,500 square foot facilityincludes a large training room, office spacefor station officers, a fitness room, andthree large double length drive-through fireapparatus bays. This station houses apumper, heavy rescue, 3000-gallon tanker,and a reserve pumper.

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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STATION 3 - VIRGIL

Left to Right: Back Row: J. Reynolds, C. Tucker, V. Trapani, H. Boese, M. van der ZalmFront Row: H. Heikoop, Assistant District Chief J. Neufeld, Lieutenant J. Reschke, Captain R. Read, D. Merza, B. Disher, J. Meleskie,

J. Disher, J. Plut, Lieutenant D. Janzen, District Chief R. Gray, A. Cherney

Photo Courtesy of The NOTL Local

A photo of Station 3 located at 1391 Concession 6 Road,Virgil.

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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STATION 4 - QUEENSTON

Station 4 in Queenston responded to 58incidents in 2019. The Queenston station iscomprised of a District Chief, AssistantDistrict Chief, one Captain, one Lieutenant,and 16 Firefighters. Built in 1974, this 5,200 square foot facilityincludes a training room and two bayapparatus area. This station houses apumper and heavy rescue.

Left to Right: P. Cox, L. Devries, D. Skubel, C. Bottomley, R. Glass, L. Prue, T. Mussari, Station 4 Lieutenant , Captain G. Vandermeer,Assistant District Chief D. Jones

Photo Courtesy of The NOTL Local

A photo of Station 4 located at 5 Dumfries Street, Queenston.

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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STATION 5 - GLENDALE

Station 5 in Glendale responded to 181incidents in 2019. The Glendale station iscomprised of a District Chief, AssistantDistrict Chief, two Lieutenants, and 14Firefighters. Built in 2005, this 9,000 square foot facilityincludes a training room, office space forstation officers, and three large drive-throughapparatus bays. Niagara Emergency MedicalServices currently leases a portion of thisspace for utilization as an ambulance base.

Left to Right: C. Zerwes, L. Mazzuca, A. Harlond, G. van Egmond, Lieutenant S. Ferguson, K. Hnatiw, J. Stuart, B. Lowes, Lieutenant S. Maxwell, Assistant District Chief L. Visser, District Chief C. DeGrow

Photo Courtesy of The NOTL Local

A photo of Station 5 located at 350 Townline Road,Glendale.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices is comprised entirely of volunteerfirefighters. What this means is that thereare no career firefighters staffing thestations at any time. When there is anemergency, firefighters are called via pagerto respond to the fire station from theirhomes, jobs, or elsewhere to provideemergency services. As described by the National VolunteerFirefighter Council "Volunteer firefighters aresummoned to a wide array of emergenciesacross the country every day including fires,emergency medical incidents, terroristevents, natural disasters, hazardousmaterials incidents, water rescueemergencies, high-angle and confinedspace emergencies, and other generalpublic service calls. The public relies on thevolunteer emergency services to be theirfirst line of defense in these emergencies.Volunteers spend an enormous amount oftime training to prepare for theseemergencies." Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices is proud to operate five fire stationsstaffed by 110 volunteer firefighters whocourageously provide service and devotionto the community that they live in.

VOLUNTEERS

YOUR FIRE SERVICE

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Firefighter S. Roy in one of the department's recruitmentposters. This poster is used to emphasize that our

department consists of regular citizens looking to make adifference in their communities.

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YOUR FIRE SERVICE

ADMINISTRATION STRUCTURE

OPERATIONS STRUCTURE

The administrative structure ofNiagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services is headed by theFire Chief & CEMC who theAdministrative Assistant, and twoDeputy Chiefs report to. Under theDeputy Chief of Community RiskReduction is the Fire Prevention &Public Education Officer, and underthe Deputy Chief of Operations &Training is the Training Officer.

Within the operational structureof the department, there is theDeputy Chief of Operations &Training who oversees the fivefire stations. Each of the fivestations follows a similar chain ofcommand which consists ofDistrict Chiefs, Assistant DistrictChiefs, Captains, Lieutenants,and Firefighters.

APPRECIATIONNIGHT

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In support of our volunteer firefighters,the Lord Mayor and Council host anannual Appreciation Night to recognizethe commitment and dedication that thefirefighters put in towards protecting theMunicipality. This annual awards night has proven tobe an excellent event to supportcomradery within the department, givingthe firefighters from different districts achance to socialize with one anotherand enjoy a night out with theircolleagues, partners, and spouses.

Traditionally, this evening has alsobeen used as an opportunity forCouncil, and members of thedepartment to recognize significantmilestones that firefighters haveachieved over the previous year of duty. At the 2019 Appreciation Night, 27firefighters were recognized for theiryears of service milestones,promotions, or retirements that tookplace in the preceding year. Thefollowing pages highlight some of theseachievements.

From Left to Right: Councillor E. Wiens, Councillor W. Cheropita, Captain R. Van Berkel, Firefighter R. Hunter, Firefighter D. Gordon, and Fire Chief Ruller at the 2019 Appreciation Night at Wayne Gretzky's Estate Winery & Distillery.

APPRECIATION NIGHT

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YEARS OF SERVICE AWARDS

Station 1 Randy Van Berkel - 10 Years of ServiceRaymond Hunter - 25 Years of ServiceDan Gordon - 30 Years of Service Station 2 Mark Newman - 5 Years of Service Derek Rooney - 5 Years of ServiceRick Legros - 25 Years of ServiceGreg Pillitteri - 30 Years of Service Station 3 Jim Reschke - 20 Years of ServiceDean Filipetti - 25 Years of Service Station 4 Tanner Ferguson - 5 Years of ServiceCrisipin Bottomley - 20 Years of Service Station 5 Alistair Harlond - 5 Years of ServiceKevin Hnatiw - 5 Years of ServiceBrenda Lowes - 5 Years of ServiceJacob Stuart - 5 Years of ServiceSean Ferguson - 15 Years of ServiceScott Maxwell - 15 Years of Service

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services recognizes members with a Certificateof Membership and additional sticker for every 5 years of service that they dedicate tothe department. Additionally there are Federal Exemplary Service Medals (20 Years), aswell as Provincial Long Service Medals (25 Years) that are awarded by the governmentto recognize the longevity of service that first responders dedicate to their communities.Below is a list of members from the department and the number of years they wererecognized for in 2019.

The Federal Exemplary Service Medal awarded tofirefighters who have served as an active member of their

department for 20 years. A service bar is added to thismedallion for every 5 additional years a firefighter serves.

The Ontario Long Service Medal is awarded to firefighterswho have served as an active member of the Province for

a total of 25 years. Additionally a bar is added to thismedallion for every 5 years of service thereafter that the

Firefighter serves.

Along with recognizing the length of service firefightershave dedicated, the department also recognizes anypromotions firefighters have received over the previousyear. The 2019 promotions are as follows: Cort Day – District Chief – Station 1 Dayton Kruitbosch – Assistant District Chief – Station 1 Michael Mitchell – Captain – Station 1 Dave Jones – Assistant District Chief – Station 4 George Vandermeer – Captain - Station 4 Scott Maxwell – Lieutenant – Station 5

AWARDS NIGHT

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PROMOTIONS

Chief Ruller with Assistant District Chief D. Kruitbosch, and Captain M. Mitchell, acceptingtheir promotion letters at the 2019 Appreciation

Night.

RETIREMENTSIn 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services had two membersretire with a combined years of service totalof 76 years. Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services would like to thankDistrict Chief Greg Warner (45 Years) andFirefighter Allan Bilinsky (31 Years) for theirdedication and service to the departmentover the course of their tenure.

Firefighter Alan Bilinsky along side of his two sons Jared (Left) and Braeden (Right) receiving his letter of

retirement from Councillor E. Wiens, and Fire Chief Ruller.

PREVENTION& PUBLICEDUCATION

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2019 was a busy year for thePrevention & Public EducationDivision of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire& Emergency Services. Some of thehighlights from 2019 include thefollowing:

236FIRE INSPECTIONS

These include short-term rental,

commercial, and vulnerable occupancy

inspections completed by the Prevention

Division to verify compliance with the

Ontario Fire Code.

196APPLICATIONS REVIEWED

These consisted of both planning applications

reviewed for the safety of future developments

within town, and special event applications to

confirm the fire and life safety for all occupants

attending these events.

31 PUB-ED EVENTS

These consisted of station tours, group

presentations, school visits, and more

throughout 2019.

2019 HIGHLIGHTS

FPO B. Disher with members of the Brownies Scout Group. after aguided tour of Station 1

Deputy Chief J. Plato, and FPO B. Disher with the Emergency Responders and Delegates from South Korea after a station tour of theNiagara-on-the-Lake Fire Station 1.

In August, the Niagara-on-the-Lake fire prevention staff once again welcomedemergency responders and delegates from South Korea. This was the second year in arow that the Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services has hosted a groupfrom South Korea, touring Station 1 in Old Town and having a chance to talk about thedifferences and similarities between the two fire services.

In March of 2019, fire preventionstaff and volunteer firefightersattended the Niagara-on-the-LakeHome Show at Crossroads PublicSchool where they distributed firesafety messaging to residents andencouraged families to check theirsmoke and carbon monoxidealarms. Furthermore, firefightersmade themselves available toanswer any fire safety questionsfrom residents and visitors.

PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

From left to right: Firefighter H. Boese, Firefighter C. Zerwes, Deputy Chief J.

Plato, and FPO B. Disher at the 2019 Niagara-on-the-Lake Home Show.

NOTL HOME SHOW

SOUTH KOREAN FIREFIGHTER VISIT

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PROJECT ZEROIn the fall of 2019, Niagara-on-the-LakeFire & Emergency Services was therecipient of 126 combination smoke andcarbon monoxide alarms generouslydonated by Enbridge Gas as part of theirProject Zero Campaign. Project Zero provides selected firedepartments within Enbridge Gas’service area with free combinationsmoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fordistribution to individuals in theircommunities who are deemed to be high-risk.

“Within Niagara-on-the-Lake,firefighters and prevention staffhave been able to distribute thesealarms to help ensure that thoseat risk within our community areprotected from the dangers ofsmoke and carbon monoxide.”

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PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

New provincial regulations surroundingCommunity Risk Assessments saw theNiagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices begin to create a newcomprehensive Community RiskAssessment. The creation of thisdocument, which is slated to becompleted by the end of the 2nd quarterof 2020, will then serve as a guidingdocument for all future decisions withinthe department.

COMMUNITY RISKASSESMENT

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services Safe Home Smoke and CarbonMonoxide Alarm Program deploys our volunteer firefighters throughout thecommunity, educating residents on the importance of working alarms and fire safety intheir homes. Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services has partnered withPenner Building Centre in order to be able to provide smoke or carbon monoxide alarmsto non-compliant residences at no cost to the homeowner. This program allows for thefollowing:

It educates residents on the importance of having working smoke and carbonmonoxide alarms in their home. Part of our program is to remind residents to testtheir alarms monthly and change their batteries at least once per year. This alsoincludes checking the dates on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and theimportance of replacing expired devices.

Fire prevention staff conducted seven firestation tours for children of various agesthroughout 2019. Each group was educatedon the importance of fire safety, and wereencouraged to plan and practice homeescape plans with their families. The groupstoured the fire station, where they wereshown various fire trucks and firefightingequipment, followed by an explanation oftheir application.

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PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

SAFE HOME PROGRAM

It distributes smoke or carbon monoxide alarms to homes that are not properlyprotected, and ensures they meet the requirements of the Ontario Fire Code.

It engages the community and provides additional opportunities for members ofthe public to meet Niagara-on-the-Lake’s volunteer firefighters and educate themabout the organization.

FIRE STATION TOURS

Left to Right: Firefighter H. Boese, Firefighter J. ReynoldsFirefighter L. Prue, and Firefighter C. Bottomley after a tour of

Niagara-on-the-Lake Station 1.

As part of Fire Prevention Week,Niagara-on-the-Lake fireprevention staff, along withvolunteer firefighters, participatedin “Coffee with a Firefighter”. Thisprovincial initiative partners withMcDonald’s and providesresidents within the community arelaxed atmosphere to learn aboutfire safety from firefighters, whileenjoying a hot McDonald’s coffee. Many residents stopped by to chatwith the firefighters, taking somehome educational materials withthem, as well as insights fromtheir conversations.

Left to Right: FPO B. Disher, Firefighter N. Murphy, Firefighter R. McLeod,Firefighter C. Bottomley, Firefighter T. Mussari, Firefighter K. Hernder, and

Firefighter S. Lebrasseur at the Coffee with a Firefighter event at McDonald's.

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Fire Prevention Week is an annual internationalinitiative taking place every October. This initiativeis aimed at raising fire prevention awareness withincommunities throughout North America. The themefor 2019’s Fire Prevention Week was “Not everyhero wears a cape. Plan and practice yourescape!”. Fire prevention staff and volunteerfirefighters were out in the community speaking withresidents about home escape planning, theimportance of having working alarms, and otherimportant fire safety messages. Fire preventionstaff and volunteer firefighters also attended localelementary schools to conduct witnessed fire drills,as well as handing out cooking safety information toseniors throughout the week.

Firefighters R. MacLeod, and S. Lebrasseur helpingdeliver pizza to one of the local school classrooms.

PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

As a result of the variousorganizational changes that took placelate in 2019, Data Analytics &Decision Support became part of theportfolio of the Deputy Fire Chief –Community Risk Reduction. The DataAnalytics & Decision Support initiativeimproves efficiency by eliminatingmanual data tracking, streamliningreporting processes and improvingeffectiveness by informing criticaldecision-making with direct access toaccurate, consistent, and timely data.

Internal and external stakeholders, mediaand members of the public also haveincreased access to data via the Town’swebsite. An interactive mapping initiativebegan in 2019 where incident types and callvolume is now presented. These enhancements enable Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services toincrease both the amount and thesophistication of data being provided to thepublic and other stakeholders, therebyincreasing transparency for all aspects oftheir operations.

An example of one of the info graphics being released on the Fire &Emergency Services social media accounts.

The Data Analytics & Decision Support initiative is a critical step inthe development of a continuous improvement model that ensures

we are community-focused, data-driven, outcome-focused, strategic-minded, well-organized, properly-equipped, and properly-staffed and

trained.

A snapshot of the mapping NOTL Fire &Emergency Services is making available via the

Town website.

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DATA ANALYTICS & DECISION SUPPORT

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PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

FIRE PREVENTION

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services Fire Prevention Division isresponsible for conducting fire safety inspections to ensure all buildings and structuresin Niagara-on-the-Lake are in compliance with the Ontario Fire Code. Fire preventionstaff are appointed as Assistants to the Fire Marshal under the Fire Protection &Prevention Act. Enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code is an essential partof fire protection within the community. Through enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code,we can ensure the safety the residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake and the many visitorswho enjoy the town throughout the year.

Fire Prevention staff completed inspections of 100% of vulnerableoccupancies in Niagara-on-the-Lake (including care occupancies, andretirement homes) to protect the most vulnerable residents withinthe town. These inspections included witnessed fire drills as requiredby the Ontario Fire Code for vulnerable occupancies.

Fire Prevention staff completed 236 inspections throughout 2019 aspart of our proactive fire safety inspection schedule. These inspections werecompleted in various types of occupancies, including short-term rentals,migrant worker housing, hotels, multi-unit residential buildings, schools,wineries, restaurants, and commercial properties. These inspectionsresulted in 33 inspection orders issued to property owners with various OntarioFire Code violations.

Firefighter M. van der Zalm, and FPPO B. Disher in front of Ladder 1 with the Brownies Scout Group after giving a tour of Old TownStation 1.

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PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION

PREVENTION & PUBLIC EDUCATION STATISTICS

From a fire prevention and public education standpoint, the above statistics highlight thetype and frequency of activity the prevention division committed to over the course of2019. It is evident based on the information provided that fire inspections were thelargest proportion of prevention activities conducted in the preceding year. Other majorareas the division invested their time in were special event reviews (133), and planningreviews (63). This information is extremely useful to Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services as it gives an outline of just how many events and activities areactually addressed by the prevention and public education division in the course of acalendar year.

TRAININGDIVISION

The Training Division of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services madesignificant improvement to the manyexisting comprehensive internalprograms in 2019. This progress is partlya result of the transition to a modulartraining program that better utilizesavailable training hours. The Training Division is responsible forthe regular firefighter curriculum, officertraining curriculum, delivery andcoordination of National Fire ProtectionAssociation (NFPA) certifications, andvarious specialized internal and externaltraining and certification.

In 2019, the department successfullycertified over 89 firefighters to anNFPA standard in at least one area ofdiscipline. Furthermore, training beganfor 15 volunteer firefighter recruits in thefall of 2019 with the intent of a spring2020 graduation.

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"89 FirefightersCertified to an

NFPA Standard"

The Training Division provides ongoing educationfor all members of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire& Emergency Services, including firefighters, officers,and new recruits. Furthermore, the Training Division alsoprovides research and development for fire suppressiontechnology matters, the dissemination of new informationin the field, and the updating of technical guidancedocuments. Due to the high-risk nature of firefighting,training consumes a significant portion of firefighters’time. Effective, ongoing training produces highlycompetent firefighters, while decreasing their risk ofinjury. In 2019, firefighters accumulated over 12,700 hours ofregular curriculum training. The curriculum trainingtakes place Monday evenings with a focus on medicalemergencies, hazardous material incidents, fireground operations, vehicle rescue, firefightersurvival, and incident management. In addition to the regular scheduled curriculum training,the most recent intake of firefighter recruits began theRecruit Training Program. These new recruits undergo arigorous 300-hour training program which preparesthem for the National Fire Protection Associationwritten and practical testing and certification.

TRAINING DIVISION

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Firefighter M. Skubel operating the eDRAULIC Jaws of Life whiletraining on Auto-Extrication on a Monday night.

TRAINING DIVISION

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FORMER NURSES RESIDENCE

Firefighters and Recruits participating in different training exercises at the newly acquired Nurses Residence on Byron St. in Old Town.

In 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services made valuable useof the former nurses residence on ByronStreet. Our firefighters were able to performvaluable skills training in this building such assearch and rescue, Rapid Intervention Teamskills, hose advancements, and hose cabinetdrills. Use of this building provided a morerealistic training environment for ourfirefighters. This building has also proven to bebeneficial to the 2019 recruit class. Multipletraining sessions have been held at thislocation, providing recruits a realisticopportunity to incorporate all of the individualskills they have developed, and apply them toscenario-based drills.

Firefighters practicing various skills at the nurses residence.

TRAININGHIGHLIGHTS

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nfpa 47214 FIREFIGHTERS CERTIFIED

This standard outlines the qualifications firefighters

need to meet for Hazardous Materials incidents. We

successfully trained and tested 14 firefighters to the

Operations level of this standard, which is a

requirement in the process of receiving International

Fire Service Accreditation Congress seals.

NFPA 100211 FIREFIGHTERS CERTIFIED

11 firefighters successfully completed the training and

testing to Chapter 5 of the NFPA standard, which

encompasses the complex operations of a fire pump

truck. These 11 firefighters are now able to safely

operate a pump truck in both rural and urban

environments.

NFPA 104120 FIREFIGHTERS CERTIFIED

20 firefighters became certified Fire Instructors after

successfully completing the assignments and testing

to Level 1 of this standard. This adds depth to the

instructor pool within our department.

12, 732TOTAL TRAINING HOURS

This is a combined total of the amount of training

hours that firefighters, and recruits have dedicated to

training in the year 2019.

2019RECRUITMENT

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2019RECRUITMENT

In spring of 2019, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Fire & Emergency Services began a

recruitment drive consisting of

recruiting, training, and certifying

volunteer firefighter candidates.

Since beginning the 2019

recruitment, there have been 15

candidates who have successfully

completed their NFPA 1001 Level I

certification. Completion of NFPA

1001 Level II, 472, and 1035 are

expected to be completed in 2020.

"15 CANDIDATES HAVE EACHDEDICATED OVER 300 HOURSOF TRAINING INPREPARATION OF BECOMINGVOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERSIN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE."

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As a result of the overwhelming response to 2019’s recruitment drive, a largegroup of candidates participated in the selection process. After initial screening ofthe applications, qualified candidates were invited to participate in the candidateaptitude test, which took place in May 2019. Those successful at the aptitude testing stage then participated in panelinterviews intended to better assess their qualifications and fit as a volunteerfirefighter. This year's round of recruit interviews took place in June 2019. Those successful in the interview process were then provided a conditional letterof employment which marks the start of their tenure with the Niagara-on-the-LakeFire & Emergency Services. In order to satisfy the aforementioned conditions, applicants must complete theCandidate Physical Ability Test administered through Firefighter Services ofOntario. Additionally, a satisfactory medical screening, driver abstract, and PoliceVulnerable Sector Check are required. Successful candidates must then complete more than 300 hours of training andtesting each over a nine month period before becoming an active firefighter. Toensure their competency on the fireground, recruits are certified to the NationalFire Protection Association Standard for Firefighter Level I & II, HazardousMaterials Operations Level, and Fire & Life Safety Educator Level I. Thiscertification process is intended to ensure that new recruits are trained to thehighest standards, and are prepared to safely operate alongside their peers.

THE PROCESS

2019 RECRUITMENT

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In May of 2019, Niagara-on-the-LakeFire & Emergency Services placed anew 3000-gallon tanker into service inSt.Davids. This vehicle replaced a 1972Thibault tanker that was remounted ona used chassis in the mid-90s. Volunteer firefighters provided input intothe design of the new apparatus, whichis specifically designed for the uniquecharacteristics of Niagara-on-the-Lake’slandscape. Firefighting in rural settingstypically involves firefighters bringingwater to a scene and as such, a tankerwith increased water capacity isextremely important.

This 2019 Kenworth T-370 has a 3,000-gallon water tank, automated side dumpchutes, and an onboard pump that allows itto feed another fire apparatus on a scene.New safety features include improvedemergency and scene lighting, a 360-degree camera system, high visibilitychevrons and a large traffic advisor to alertmotorists when operating on Highway 405and the QEW. The Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices strives to ensure that modernfirefighting equipment is available tosupport our volunteer firefighters in thedelivery of effective emergency responses.The addition of Tanker 2 increases thesafety of both the public and the firefighters.

FLEET &EQUIPMENTADDITIONS

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A photo of the completed Kentworth T370 3000-gallon tanker that will serve as the new Tank 2 truck in St. Davids.

TANK 2

Due to significant reliability issues with

the 2005 American LaFrance/LTI aerial

truck stationed at Station 5, the decision

was made to accelerate its

replacement.

This replacement plan includes the

relocation of the 2007 Spartan/Smeal

aerial truck from Station 1 in Old Town

to Station 5 in Glendale. The

procurement process for a replacement

aerial truck commenced late in 2018

with the successful proponent being

Rosenbauer America.

In April 2019, representatives from

NOTLFD attended a pre-construction

meeting at Rosenbauer’s factory in

Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A mid-point

inspection of the cab and chassis was

performed by NOTLFD representatives

in October of 2019 that uncovered only

a few minor issues.

Final inspection and delivery is

expected in May of 2020, with a

targeted in-service date of late June

2020. This replacement represents a

significant investment into the provision

of fire protection across Niagara-on-

the-Lake.

FLEET & EQUIPMENT ADDITIONS

Photos of the chassis of the new Ladder 1 currently being constructed.

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LADDER 1

FLEET&EQUIPMENTADDITIONS

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Over the past 36 months, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Serviceshas been replacing the traditionalhydraulic ‘jaws-of-life’ tools with state-of-the-art electric-hydraulic tools. In2019, the purchase of two spreaders,two cutters, and one ram completed thisdepartment-wide replacement. These tools are smaller, lighter, andstronger, making them quicker andmore versatile than the outgoingequipment.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices purchased a forcible entry propbuilt by H&R Machine Welding &Fabricating in Fergus, Ontario. This propallows firefighters to practice forcing inwardand outward swinging doors, removinghinges, and removing door knobs anddeadbolts.

E-DRAULIC TOOLS

FORCIBLE ENTRY PROP

Recruits being briefed prior to using the forcible entry prop.

Firefighter S. Lebrasseur training with the new Hurst eDRAULIC autoextrication tools.

STABILIZATION& GROWTHPLAN

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Late in 2019, Fire & EmergencyServices Stabilization & Growth Plan,aligned with the 2019-2022 CouncilStrategic plan, was released with theintention to provide short-term directionduring the development of a Fire MasterPlan that will commence in 2020. Theintent of this document is to measurablyimprove the provision of fire servicesover the 18-month period that a FireMaster Plan is completed. Upon completion of the Fire MasterPlan, this Stabilization & Growth Plancan then be reviewed and integratedinto the implementation plan that will bedeveloped based on therecommendations of the completed FireMaster Plan.

Make Organizational ImprovementsImprove Service DeliveryEnhance Training & ProfessionalDevelopmentCommit to ContinuousImprovement

The Stabilization & Growth Plan consistsof four overarching objectives:

It is the intent of Niagara-on-the-LakeFire & Emergency Services to becomeleaders in the provision of fire servicesthrough the volunteer fire protectionservice delivery model. Consequently,this document does not compare theorganization against other comparablefire services, rather it outlines initiativesthat will position Niagara-on-the-LakeFire & Emergency Services as a leader inthe fire service.

S T A B A L I Z A T I O N & G R O W T H P L A N

Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services faces manychallenges that extend beyond front-line emergency response.Maintaining training and education levels for our firefighters withincreasing public expectations and legal requirements proves to bedemanding. Public education requires innovation and creativity in order to meetthe needs of a rapidly changing community. Managing the MunicipalEmergency Management Program in order to not just meet butexceed minimum provincial compliance requirements has beenoutlined as an immediate priority. The utilization of technology, ensuring effective emergencycommunications, and maintaining a complex fleet are other examplesof the various challenges that continue to be faced.

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COMMUNITYENGAGEMENT

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As a result of the increased focus on data

analytics and the utilization of GIS

mapping, Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire &

Emergency Services was able to produce

an online interactive incident map for

public consumption. This interactive map

allows users to view incidents by type or

location throughout the municipality. The

data is updated monthly and has various

filtering options to allow the user to focus

on areas of interest.

A snapshot of the online interactive Fire Map from the Fire & Emergency Services Webpage. This map can be found at :https://www.notl.org/fire_incidents_map

FIRE MAPPING

OPEN AIR BURNING

As open-air burning is part of regularfarming practices, it was important forNiagara-on-the-Lake Fire &Emergency Services to identify andimplement process improvements thatwould reduce unnecessaryadministrative work and improvecustomer service. The process development andimplementation strategy for an onlineapproval procedure was initiated in2019. Working with the AgricultureCommittee to streamline andmodernize the approval process, theonline approval process wassuccessfully launched early in 2020.

In order to better serve the public, and inalignment with Town Council's 2019-2022Strategic Plan, a revamping of the existingFire & Emergency Services web page wasinitiated. The revamped web page willprovide a more seamless user experiencemoving forward. Furthermore, access to anonline training portal is available througha secure login process that allows volunteerfirefighters to access all internalcommunication, forms and documentationremotely.

Engaging the public through various social mediaplatforms proved to be highly valuable throughout 2019.The @NOTLfiredept Twitter page has over 1200 followerswith tweets garnering 475,100 impressions, and 72,240engagements in 2019. Through the completion of theCommunity Risk Assessment in 2020, social mediaengagement will see more targeted and refinedmessaging. You can follow Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices at:

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

WEBSITE

A snapshot of the home screen of the Fire & Emergency ServicesWebpage. that can be found at:

http://notl.com/content/fire-and-emergency-services

A look at the Fire & Emergency ServicesTwitter page.

@NOTLfiredept

@notlfiredept

SOCIAL MEDIA

@NOTLfire

ASSOCIATIONSEVENTS

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In Niagara-on-the-Lake, four of the firestations have formed individualassociations including current and pastmembers that spend countless hoursraising funds and volunteering their timewithin the community. The funds thatare raised through the variousfundraisers are often donated tocommunity groups, used assponsorships for sports teams, or usedto purchase supplies for othercommunity groups in support of theirinitiatives. The following section highlights some ofthe events that associations held overthe past year in support of thecommunity.

Firefighter D. Merza, Assistant District Chief J. Neufeld, and District Chief R. Gray with a donation to NOTL Minor Lacrosse.

Firefighter Steve Lebrasseur at the MD Tollgate

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ASSOCIATION EVENTS

CAR SHOWSVirgil Volunteer Firefighters Association is wellknown for their car shows and cruise nights.Spring Fever is a joint fundraising initiativebetween the Niagara-on-the-Lake Kinsmen Cluband the Virgil Volunteer Firefighters Association. In August, the volunteers host an annualcar show at Fire Station 3 where proceedsraised are donated to youth sports inNiagara-on-the-Lake. Firefighter Richard Moore (Left) with the Winner of the

Virgil Fire Station Car Show.

TURKEY ROLLSEach year, Fire Stations 1, 2 & 3 hostturkey roll fundraising raffles. Historically,the funds raised from these events wouldbe reinvested into the stations, vehicles,or equipment in order make neededimprovements. As funding modelsevolved, the proceeds of thesefundraisers are no longer used forfunding department initiatives, rather theyare donated to local charities andcommunity groups. In addition to the critical fundraisingcomponent of these events, the eventsprove to be a great opportunity forcommunity members to connect with thevolunteer firefighters in their community.

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ASSOCIATION EVENTS

MD TOLLGATE

BREAKFASTS & DINNERS

Firefighter S. Lebrasseur at the Annual MD Tollgate.

The St.Davids FirefightersAssociation hosts a breakfast buffeton the last Saturday of every monthat 745 Warner Road. QueenstonVolunteer Firefighters Associationhosts spaghetti dinners twicethroughout the year, once in thespring, and the other in the fall. These events raise on averageapproximately $1500 each withthe funds reallocated to support localorganizations such as minor sports,Air Cadets, Red Roof Retreat,Bicycles for Farm Workers, and more.

More than 600 Fire Departments andAssociations across Canada raise morethan $3 million annually in support ofMuscular Dystrophy Canada. Each year,firefighters give their time and help “Fill theBoot” by organizing various events like bootdrives, rooftop campouts, stair climbs,ladder sits, car washes, raffles, sportingevents and truck pulls in support of morethan 50,000 Canadians who are impactedby neuromuscular disorders. Every August, since 1971, Station 1firefighters have hosted an annual tollgateat the intersections of Mississagua Streetand Queen Street and at King Street andQueen Street in Old Town. This past year,volunteers raised $9,936.00 for MuscularDystrophy Canada. To date, Station 1firefighters have raised over $280,000.Station 1 Firefighters would like to thanktheir retirees for their assistance withcollecting, as well as members from theSt.Davids Firefighters Association whocame out to help with this years Boot Driveas well.

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ASSOCIATION EVENTS

INCIDENTS OFSIGNIFICANCE

COLANERI WINERY -

STRUCTURE FIRE

Photo of the Colaneri Winery Fire that took place on April 16, 2019.

At 1:56 pm on April 16th, 2019, firefightersfrom Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & EmergencyServices were dispatched to Concession 6Road for reports of heavy black smokecoming from Colaneri Estates Winery. Following the initial dispatch, Chief Rullerobserved a column of heavy black smokerising from the area of the reported incident,and immediately upgraded the call to a 2ndalarm. Upon arriving on scene, Chief Rullerassumed Colaneri Command. Afterconducting an initial size up of the premises,it was determined that an outside storagebuilding, along with a tractor trailer, stacks ofskids, and some farm equipment were on firealong the rear of the premises, threateningthe main winery building.

First arriving crews proceeded to secure awater supply and used large diameterhose lines to knock down the flames. As additional resources arrived on scene,crews proceeded to stretch additionalhose lines to battle the blaze and protectpotential exposures. Crews conductedsearches of the winery verifying that no firehad extended into the main winery buildingitself. Crews were able to contain the fire andhad it under control in approximately 40minutes. In total, 51 personnel respondingon 11 different fire apparatus contributedto mitigation of what could have been acatastrophic event had the fire extended tothe main winery building. "Huge thank you goes out to the Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters with their quickresponse and bravery. There are no wordsto express properly our gratitude. They arespecial people who volunteer for this."

- Colaneri Estates Winery

SEVENTH STREET - MUTUAL AID

INCIDENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE

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A large commercial greenhouse fire in the area of SeventhStreet and Fourth Avenue in St. Catharines broke out justpast 11:00 pm on August 16th, 2019. This roughly 700,000square foot structure was well involved and threateningadditional structures of neighbouring properties. As part of a mutual aid request, Niagara-on-the-Lake Tank2 was dispatched at 12:32 am on August 17th, 2019 to aidin the shuttling of water to front line apparatus, as thisincident was in a rural area. As all St. Catharines fire apparatus were committed and inthe midst of recalling staff, through the Regional FireCoordinator, Niagara-on-the-Lake Pump 5 was madeavailable with staff from 12:30 am through 2:30 am toprovide coverage if necessary. At 6:30 am, the IncidentCommander requested Niagara-on-the-Lake Pump 3 andTanker 3 to respond to assist in containing the fire as it wasspreading rapidly towards neighbouring structures. Fire Chief Ruller responded to the scene in order to liaisewith the Incident Commander and supervise Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters. At 9:00 am, in order to provide relieffor Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters that were on sceneadvancing hoselines in arduous weather and terrain, fouradditional Niagara-on-the-Lake firefighters and 1 DistrictChief were requested. Furthermore, two more firefighterswere requested to relieve the pair that had been operatingTanker 2 for just over 9 hours. At the height of the incident,there were 24 fire apparatus from various departmentsacross the region, and countless staff/command vehicles.

Photo from the Seventh Street Greenhouse fire.

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INCIDENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE

LINE 6 ROAD - GREENHOUSE FIRE

Photos from the incident that took place at the call on Line 6 Rd.

Add a little bit of body text

On August 23rd, 2019, at 12:04 am crewsfrom St.Davids, Queenston, Virgil, Glendaleand Old Town were dispatched to Line 6Road for reports of a 100,000 square footgreenhouse on fire. Upon arriving on scene, first arriving unitsconfirmed there was extensive firethroughout the greenhouse, and an interiorattack was initiated. The crew from Pump 2was tasked with advancing 400 ft of 45 mmhose interior for a primary attack.Subsequent arriving crews secured a watersource and stretched additional hose lines tocontrol exterior fire spread.

As additional apparatus arrived, crewswere able to contain the fire and bring itunder control by 1:00 am. Deputy Fire Chief Jay Plato investigatedthe origin, cause and circumstancessurrounding the fire. The cause wasdetermined to be electrical in nature andoriginated in irrigation equipment in thecenter portion of the greenhouse. At theheight of the incident, there were seventrucks on scene with 40 firefighters.

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INCIDENTS OF SIGNIFICANCE

NIAGARA DISTRICT AIRPORT -

AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT

On the afternoon of August 31st, 2019,firefighters from Virgil and Glendale weredispatched to the Niagara District Airport for aplane that had experienced a mechanicalfailure during landing and had left the runwayand subsequently experienced significantdamage. During the landing, the aircraft experienceddamage to one of the wings that in turnresulted in a significant fuel spill. Firefightersdeployed a hoseline as a precaution andassisted staff on site in containing the leak.The Ontario Spills Action Centre was notifiedprior to crews clearing the scene.

LINE 2 RD - M.V.C

In the evening of August 31st, 2019, a seriousvehicle collision occurred in the area of Line 2Rd. and Concession 2 Rd. Crews from Virgil and Old Town were involved ina complex vehicle extrication to remove twotrapped patients. This extrication involved thecomplete roof removal of one vehicle byfirefighters while other firefighters secured alanding area for the air ambulance at CarolineCellars.

Photos from the fuel spill incident that took place atthe Niagara District Airport.

Photo from the Line 2 MVC

LOOKING AHEAD -2020 INITIATIVES

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The primary objective of the Fire MasterPlan is to provide Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire& Emergency Services' stakeholders with adocument that contains achievable andmeasurable recommendations that willelevate the customer service experienceand be the basis from which future policiesand decisions are made. The Fire MasterPlan will also consider policies andrecommendations set out by othermunicipal documents such as the Town’sOfficial Plan, Secondary Plan, and DistrictPlan, as well as other planning andcommunity growth strategies. The key driver behind this document is thereduction of risk. This plan will rely heavilyon information gathered and compiled inthe Community Risk Assessment (CRA)that is currently underway by Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Servicesstaff.This study considers demographics,geography of the town, types ofoccupancies, current and historicemergency data, and economic/financialimpacts.

Governance, legislation, by-laws andadministration Fire prevention and public educationFirefighter staffing and service agreements Emergency response Firefighter training Apparatus, equipment and maintenance Dispatch and communicationsBudgets and revenues.

This Fire Master Plan will provide a completereview of the current operations of Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services to assistCouncil in establishing key objectives for thedepartment. The plan will includerecommendations to address both short-termand long-term strategies for the Town. Theoverarching goal of a Fire Master Plan is topresent a clear understanding of the existingand future requirements of the department. Referencing best practices, including relevantstandards and legislation, this report will beprepared by completing an assessment of thefollowing departmental administrative andoperational components:

FIRE MASTER PLAN

Accurately indicates staffing levels forincidents through IamResponding.

Reduces response times by displayingthe location of responding firefightersallowing an informed decision as towhether an apparatus should respondimmediately or wait for additionalfirefighters.

Provides routing information to scenebased on available data.

Provides for a secure medium fromdispatch via the Computer AidedDispatch interface so that respondingcrews can be updated while on route tothe scene.

Provides mapping and flow rates of firehydrants.

Allows for responding crews to haveseamless access to fire pre-plan andproperty access information while onroute to and at the scene of an incident.

The integration of Mobile Data Terminals(MDTs) in all frontline fire apparatus willbegin in 2020. The utilization of tablet-based MDTs provides the followingbenefits:

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LOOKING AHEAD - 2020 INITIATIVES

MOBILE DATA TERMINALS

As part of the approved 2020 capitalbudget, NOTLFD is proceeding with thepurchase of a Rescue Pumper for FireStation 3 in Virgil. This pumper will allow for thedecommissioning of a 1990 Pumper and a1994 Heavy Rescue. The increased callvolume and increased use of fire apparatuslocated centrally in Niagara-on-the-Lake,specifically at Station 3 in Virgil hasidentified the need to reconsider the typesof apparatus that are responding fromStation 3. Due to its central location, Station 3 allowsfor exceptional additional coveragethroughout all 5 Districts when required. Specifically, Station 3 apparatus have theability to support both Station 1 in Old Townand Station 5 in Glendale, which areexperiencing continued growth andintensification by providing depth to theresponse (additional staffing) to supplementthose stations as they continue to work toincrease their staffing levels.

PUMPER / RESCUE