Written By David Gomez
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - Emergency response demands, staffing levels and future equipment needs were among the key topics highlighted as Council received the municipality’s 2025 Fire Department Annual Report during its March 18 meeting.
Fire Chief Gary Johnston presented the report, offering an overview of the department’s operations over the past year. “This report highlights the dedication and professionalism of the firefighters who proudly serve our community,” he said.
One of the central points raised was staffing. Johnston reported that the department is currently operating at “75% of authorized staffing numbers,” with a noticeable difference between stations. “Glencoe station sits at 80%, Wardsville station currently at 55%,” he said, adding that the total number of personnel stands at 33. While the Wardsville station remains below desired levels, Johnston indicated that recruitment efforts are showing signs of improvement heading into 2026.
Council also heard that demand for service continues to grow. The department responded to 114 calls in 2025, representing a 4.48% increase compared to the previous year. Over a longer period, Johnston noted a 41% rise in calls between 2021 and 2025, reflecting a steady upward trend in emergency responses.
Beyond call volumes, the report emphasized prevention and training efforts. A total of 107 fire inspections were completed in 2025, alongside 20 public education events. Johnston described training as a major priority, highlighting that, firefighters accumulated “an incredible 3,935 hours of training” over the year. He also noted progress toward meeting provincial certification requirements, with most firefighters already compliant and additional recruits currently enrolled in required courses.
Equipment and infrastructure were also addressed. Johnston confirmed that all apparatus passed annual safety inspections, with “no major apparatus repairs to report in 2025.” However, he noted that the Wardsville engine is scheduled for replacement in 2027 in line with recommended lifecycle standards.
Facility upgrades were carried out at both stations, including lighting, generator and HVAC improvements. Some additional work, such as window replacements and a bunker gear storage project, may be considered in future budgets.
The department also secured external funding during the year. Johnston reported that grants totalled $47,623.56, supporting initiatives such as training equipment, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and firefighter cancer prevention measures.
Among notable incidents in 2025, Johnston pointed to a natural gas leak that led to a “major downtown core municipal office evacuation,” as well as a winter storm that resulted in multiple emergency calls in a single day.
Following a brief discussion, council voted to receive the report for information, with the motion carried unanimously.
