Gananoque’s fire department is growing and enhancing its capabilities, according to a mid-year report presented to council on Tuesday.
The report covers the department’s activities in the first and second quarters of 2025, highlighting new hires, training progress, and public safety initiatives. Seven new paid-on-call recruits have begun the process of joining the department, with basic training expected to wrap up this month and NFPA certification testing scheduled for the third quarter.
Fire Chief Andrew Dickson also announced the appointment of Dillon Champagne as the department’s new community safety officer, a role aimed at enhancing fire safety and prevention efforts. Champagne has been with the department since 2019.
Training remains a top priority, especially as the province’s 2026 mandatory certification deadline approaches. Two captains recently completed NFPA certifications in Officer Level 1, Instructor Level 1, and Fire Investigator, while three firefighters achieved certification as Fire Apparatus Driver/Operators. The department is now one certification away from being fully compliant with the upcoming provincial standards.
Construction of a new fire training facility is underway, including the assembly of seven sea containers and installation of key components such as doors and a working deck surface on both the first and second storeys.
The department also secured two grants: an Ontario Fire Protection Grant of $8,592 for a bunker gear dryer, and an $11,587 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation of Canada to buy new ice-water rescue equipment.
Firefighters participated in live fire training exercises at Kingston Fire Rescue’s training centre, gaining hands-on experience in realistic fire suppression scenarios. Additionally, three members were certified to operate drones in collaboration with the Gananoque Police Service, enhancing the town’s emergency response capabilities.
Beyond emergency services, the fire department engaged with the community through events like the Polar Plunge, Ribfest, Jumpstart Games, McHappy Day, and school cool-down days. Prevention efforts continued with nine fire code inspection orders issued and two successful convictions for non-compliance.