Peterborough Fire Services Partner For Campaign to Reduce Fire and Carbon Monoxide Deaths

Enbridge Gas Ontario, the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) and Peterborough Fire Services have partnered to improve home safety and bring fire and carbon monoxide-related deaths down to zero. 

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Peterborough Fire Services received 336 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Safe Community Project Zero. This public education campaign will provide more than 14,200 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario, according to a press release.

This year, Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 in Safe Community Project Zero and over the past 17 years, the program has provided more than 115,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments.

“Carbon monoxide alarms play a vital role as a second line of defence against this invisible threat, often called ‘the silent killerʼ,” said Jeff Braithwaite, Operations Supervisor, Enbridge Gas. “Proper maintenance of fuel-burning appliances is the most effective way to prevent carbon monoxide exposure. We’re proud to support our communities by raising awareness and helping Ontarians take simple, proactive steps to stay safe in their homes.”

“Our priority is making sure every resident of Peterborough has the tools they need to stay safe,” said Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives, and programs like Safe Community Project Zero help us reach residents who may otherwise go without this critical protection. We’re grateful for the continued partnership with Enbridge Gas and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council as we work together to reduce preventable injuries and deaths in our community.” 

When properly installed and maintained, combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms help provide early warning to escape from a house fire or carbon monoxide exposure safely. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of many types of common fuels. 

“This is an important initiative that puts the safety of Peterborough residents first and strengthens the well-being of our entire community. We are grateful to Enbridge Gas and Peterborough Fire Services for working together to provide residents with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, a tool that is proven to save lives and alert residents to potential danger when every second counts,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

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Metal Fire Extinguished Near Lansdowne Place's Superstore and Triple M Metal

A metal fire that broke out has been extinguished near the area of Triple M Metal and Superstore at Lansdowne Place on Monday afternooon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The fire occurred before 2:30 p.m. and Peterborough Fire Services had neutralized the area before 3:15 p.m.

Residents and business owners in the area were advised to close windows and shut off HVAC units due to the poor air quality.

@ptbo_canada A large metal fire broke out near the Superstore resulting in smoke and poor air quality. #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

Security staff have closed off the area as first responders neutralize the fire.

The cause is currently unknown.

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City of Peterborough to Pay Tribute On Firefighters’ National Memorial Day

The City of Peterborough is paying tribute to some of its first responders on Firefighters’ National Memorial Day, which takes place this Sunday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The second Sunday in September is recognized as Firefighters’ National Memorial Day, a tribute to firefighters who have died in the line of duty while protecting Canadians. Red and white commemorative lights will be displayed at City Hall on that day.

“Firefighters put their safety on the line in service to their communities. It is with profound respect and heartfelt gratitude that we remember and pay tribute to the firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We honour their selfless contributions here in our community and across Canada,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Firefighters’ National Memorial Day serves as a vital reminder of the risks faced by these everyday heroes, and of the ultimate price some have paid in protecting the safety and well-being of our communities.”

A Line of Duty Death Memorial Ceremony occurred at Del Crary Park on Tuesday. The Honour Guard marched to the memorial monument. The ceremony honoured fallen firefighters John Bowker, Jim Cumming and Ralph Parker. Mayor Jeff Leal, Fire Chief, Chris Snetsinger, and Peterborough Professional Firefighters Association President, Wesley Lake spoke at the memorial.

“On this solemn day, we stand in remembrance of the firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty. Their courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. As firefighters, we carry their legacy with us every time we respond to a call, striving to uphold the same dedication to service and community,” said Snetsinger.

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Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada® Gives Peterborough First Responders Equipment Grant

Peterborough Fire Services has been named a 2024 grant recipient by Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada®, receiving $35,956 to increase lifesaving capabilities in Peterborough.

The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada has awarded 369 grants to public safety organizations since 2015. Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

The grant was used to purchase Paratech Lifting Bags for the department.

“We are grateful to the Foundation and our local Firehouse Subs® in Peterborough for awarding us this grant,” said Chris Snetsinger, Peterborough Fire Services, Fire Chief. “The new Paratech Lifting Bags will fulfill a critical need within our department and allow our first responders to safely lift and stabilize extremely heavy objects during rescue operations, improving our ability to quickly free trapped victims and enhance community safety during emergencies.”  

This grant is one of 18 Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada grants awarded to public safety organizations during the most recent grant cycle. The 18 grants will provide lifesaving equipment valued at more than $504,000 across Canada.

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Two People Displaced From Home After Residential Fire On Denne Crescent

A residential fire broke out at a home on Denne Crescent and two people were displaced as a result early Tuesday morning.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

Peterborough Fire Services responded to the call at 7:45 a.m. Heavy smoke was observed venting under pressure from multiple openings, with fire on the main floor and in the roof/attic area.

Fire crews successfully accessed the structure and initiated aggressive search, vent and fire suppression operations. They could confine the fire to the main floor and associated attic area.

Heat and smoke have caused extensive damage to the remainder of the property. Peterborough Fire Services remains on the scene for further investigation.

Peterborough Fire Services believes the cause of the fire is accidental.

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No Injuries Sustained From Bolivar Street House Fire

There were no injuries from a residence fire on Bolivar Street that occurred on Sunday afternoon.

File Photo.

At roughly 3 p.m., Peterborough Fire Services arrived at the single-family detached dwelling. Fire crews found heavy smoke exiting from the first and second floors and flames exiting from a first-storey window.

The fire crew initiated an exterior attack and then switched to an aggressive interior attack to bring the fire under control.

There were no occupants home at the time of the incident.

Peterborough Police Services and Peterborough County Paramedics were also on scene to assist.

Peterborough Fire Prevention along with City Police are currently investigating the cause of the fire.

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Peterborough Fire Services Receive $255,260 In Training Funding From Ontario Government

Peterborough Fire Services has received $255,260 through the Ontario Government’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) to support a Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program, announced at Fire Station No. 2 on Friday afternoon.

Josh Marshall (left) and Lucas Roy (right) of the Peterborough Fire Services conducting a demo of their rope rappell exercise. Since its launch in 2021, Ontario’s Skills Development Fund has helped connect approximately 600,000 workers train or upskill for careers in the trades in their local communities, including over 92,000 manufacturing workers, over 66,000 construction workers, over 36,000 PSWs and healthcare workers and over 27,000 mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction workers. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This initiative aims to equip Peterborough Fire Service firefighters with the necessary skills to meet the technical rescue standards outlined in the Provincial Regulation Firefighter Certification.

“This latest round of SDF funding emphasizes the significance of ongoing professional development and demonstrates the government's dedication to investing in its workforce,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “As the challenges encountered by emergency responders change, it is essential that their skills and knowledge adapt as well. The Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program exemplifies the proactive measures being implemented to keep first responders leading in safety and innovation.”

The program includes classroom work and practical exercises such as rappelling and heights training. Several firefighters are currently undergoing training in the six-month program, according to Chris Snetsinger, Peterborough Fire Services Chief.

“Peterborough Fire Services must be ready to respond to complex and challenging situations. This investment in the Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program ensures our team is equipped with the technical skills and latest training needed to meet provincial certification standards and provide the highest level of service to our community,” he said. “This funding strengthens our ability to protect lives and property and supports the ongoing development of our dedicated firefighters.”

Through the SDF, the government is investing up to $1.4 billion through the SDF’s Training Stream and the Capital Stream, designed to recruit, train and upskill workers and build or upgrade training centres for the skilled trades.

“This funding ensures that our firefighters are equipped with the critical skills needed to meet modern rescue challenges and reinforces the importance of preparing our local firefighters to protect lives. It is a critical component in public safety,” said Jeff Leal, Peterborough Mayor. “I want to thank the Province of Ontario for recognizing the needs of our city and supporting our fire services with this vital initiative through the Skills Development Fund.”

“Community safety is a top priority for all of us, and investments like this in our local fire services are vital to ensuring the well-being of our residents. The $255,260 in funding through the Skills Development Fund will help strengthen Peterborough firefighters’ ability to respond to emergencies and protect lives,” said Community Services co-chairs Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Alex Bierk in a joint statement.

The City is hosting an open house of Fire Station No. 2 this Saturday 10 a.m. to noon.

Visitors are welcome to tour the station, explore the facility’s unique features and meet the firefighters staffing Fire Station No. 2. Sparky the Fire Dog will welcome young residents and share a few safety tips.

Fire Station No. 2 is the City’s first facility designed and built to be a net zero and net carbon building. Constructed with a mass timber structure, a carbon sequestering material, it aims to reduce the City’s carbon footprint.

On-street parking is available where indicated. Visitors are asked to respect posted parking restrictions.

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City of Peterborough Celebrates Grand Opening of Fire Station #2

The City of Peterborough celebrated the grand opening of the new net-zero Fire Station #2 with an open house to welcome the public to the facility located at 100 Marina Blvd. at the former Northcrest Arena location on Thursday afternoon.

Council members past and present with Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger unravelling the hose in lieu of a ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick off the Fire Station’s grand opening. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The building uses passive solar design and renewable energy sources. It is considered the City’s first facility designed and built to be certified as a net-zero carbon and net-zero energy building.

A combination of high-efficiency and intelligent technologies, including automated control systems, ground-source heat pumps, rooftop solar panels and heat-recovery systems, are installed. The building is constructed with a mass timber structure, a carbon-sequestering material and a high-performance exterior envelope. An abundance of natural light, provided through bird-friendly, high-performance windows and doors, reduces electrical light and heat loss.

“Today is a big step forward for Peterborough as we move toward achieving the goals of our Climate Change Action Plan,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This new fire hall will help the City reduce greenhouse gas emissions while delivering a vital service to Peterborough residents.”

Fire Station #2 has incorporated training facilities into the building including training areas for pumper operations and technical rescue disciplines such as rope, confined space and trench.

“The training capabilities within this station will help Peterborough firefighters maintain and enhance their training, ensuring we are ready to respond to all emergencies,” said Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “The location of the fire hall enables us to respond to those calls quickly and strategically.”

The building's net-zero design is expected to save the City an estimated $24,270 per year in operational costs.

The City says it will pursue net-zero carbon and net-zero energy certification through the Canada Green Building Council.

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Dryer Fire Breaks Out Of Aylmer Street North Basement; No Injuries Reported

A dryer fire has caused roughly $5,000 in damages at an Aylmer Street North basement however, no injuries were reported late on Wednesday night.

File Photo.

At roughly 20:11 p.m., Peterborough Fire Services responded to a report of a possible structure fire on Aylmer Street North. Fire crews observed smoke coming from a detached dwelling with all occupants exiting prior to FD arrival.

Fire Crews entered the unit to find that a fire had started in a clothes dryer that was located in the basement of the dwelling. It was quickly extinguished and damage was contained to the dryer and immediate area in the basement.

Peterborough Fire say the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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Peterborough Man Drowned at Beavermead Park Sunday; Pronounced Dead At PRHC On Monday

A 22-year-old Peterborough man has died after going into the water at Beavermead Park on Sunday. 

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF PETERBOROUGH.

At roughly 5:15 p.m., officers and first responders were called to Beavermead Park. According to Peterborough Police, three people had entered the water but only two could get out. 

Peterborough Fire Services activated their water rescue team and located a male in the water. He was resuscitated and taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre but was pronounced dead on Monday.

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