When firefighters respond to emergencies, they rely on their training, experience, and the protective equipment they wear. For hundreds of fire departments across Ontario, that equipment is manufactured close to home by Toronto-based Starfield LION.
Recently, Minister David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, was joined by Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, Mohamed Firin, MPP for York South–Weston, Fire Chief Gene Thompson, Director of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, and Deputy Fire Chief Scott Foster of the Timmins Fire Department for a tour of Starfield LION's Ontario manufacturing facility. The visit offered a firsthand look at the skilled craftsmanship and innovation that goes into producing firefighter protective gear.
The visit highlighted the important role local manufacturing plays in supporting both firefighter safety and Ontario's economy. Through programs such as the Ontario Fire Protection Grant Program, fire departments across the province have access to funding that helps them invest in essential resources, including turnout gear. These investments not only support first responders but also help sustain Ontario manufacturing jobs.
At Starfield LION's Toronto facility, more than 100 skilled workers design and handcraft custom-tailored turnout suits for firefighters across Canada. Every garment is built with a singular purpose: helping protect the first responders who protect our communities.
That commitment was recently reflected in the Timmins Fire Department's purchase of 100 sets of Starfield LION bunker gear as part of a phased replacement program. Partnerships like this help strengthen local manufacturing while ensuring firefighters have access to equipment designed specifically for their needs.
What many people may not realize is the amount of collaboration and testing involved before a piece of firefighter gear ever reaches the field. The process begins by listening directly to firefighters and distributors to understand evolving challenges and operational needs. From there, Starfield LION's team develops prototypes, gathers user feedback, refines designs, and conducts rigorous testing and certification to ensure every garment meets the latest NFPA 1970 safety standards.
The result is turnout gear designed for durability, functionality, and optimal fit. By manufacturing locally, Starfield LION can respond more quickly to customer needs, reduce exposure to global supply chain disruptions, and deliver equipment tailored to the Canadian firefighting environment.
Innovation also remains a key focus. One example is Starfield LION's new VersaFlex Multi-Use Rescue Gear, designed to provide protection during emergency medical responses, vehicle extrications, and wildland firefighting operations. The specialized gear offers firefighters an alternative to traditional structural firefighting turnout suits for a variety of emergency situations.
As an Ontario manufacturer with deep roots in Toronto, Starfield LION is proud to supply protective equipment to hundreds of fire departments throughout the province. Their work serves as a powerful reminder that choosing Ontario-made products can have a direct impact on communities, supporting local jobs while helping ensure first responders have the equipment they need to do their jobs safely.
From the factory floor to the front lines, Ontario manufacturing continues to play a vital role in protecting those who protect us.
Visit www.lionprotects.com/starfield-lion to learn more.