Durham Region Fire Services Receive $220K in Ontario Grant – The Ontario government is granting over $220,000 to fire services in Oshawa, Clarington, and Scugog to enhance fire safety and cancer prevention efforts. The funding, part of the Fire Protection Grant, will support key initiatives to protect firefighters and improve emergency responses to modern risks such as lithium-ion battery fires.
The City of Oshawa will receive $102,613.60 for essential upgrades, including a diesel exhaust extraction system for Fire Hall 5, as well as the installation of new systems in other halls. Oshawa Fire Chief Stephen Barkwell expressed gratitude for the investment, which will reduce harmful carcinogenic contaminants that threaten firefighter health.
Clarington will receive $86,016.09 to renovate hose towers for gear cleaning and drying, purchase new air filtration systems, and install a new exhaust fan. Fire Chief Mariano Perini highlighted the importance of the funding in maintaining safety and operational readiness.
Scugog will get $32,000 to install new showers and ventilation systems, along with purchasing specialized equipment to handle lithium-ion battery incidents. Fire Chief Mike Matthews emphasized the grant’s role in ensuring the safety of both career and volunteer firefighters.
Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham, commended the investment, stating that providing firefighters with upgraded tools and facilities ensures they can continue to serve the community effectively and safely.
