Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX CENTRE - Middlesex Centre is getting a provincial grant to help improve firefighter health and safety, and reduce the risks associated with emergency response.
A $70,500 Fire Protection Grant from the province will be used to fund several initiatives.
The money will help support two components of Middlesex Centre Fire Service’s Wellness Program. This includes the purchase of a trailer that serves as an on-site resource to help with decontamination. Specialized equipment and supplies on scene, enable firefighters to remove contaminants from their gear and exposed skin before returning to service or leaving the scene of a fire.
The funds will also be used to buy personal protective equipment to help reduce exposure to contaminants and carcinogens. Firefighters face a much higher risk of occupational cancer than the general population.
“This investment allows us to build on the work we’ve already done to support firefighter wellness,” said Middlesex Centre Fire Chief, Colin Toth. “The equipment funded through this grant will benefit every member of our fire service and support our commitment to firefighter health and safety,” added Toth.
The grant comes as Middlesex Centre marks Fire Prevention Week. The 2026 event takes place October 4th to 10th. This year the focus is on changing everyday habits to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires. That includes buying batteries from reputable manufacturers and retailers and looking for safety certification marks. It also involves proper disposal of batteries. “These batteries don’t belong in your garbage or regular recycling, where they pose a risk of fire and explosion that puts waste management staff at risk,” said Toth. Instead, the batteries should be taken to a battery recycling drop off location.
