Ontario Supporting Oxford Fire Services During COVID-19

WOODSTOCK – Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman announced today that the Ontario Government is investing $63,800 to help Fire Services in Oxford address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding will enhance fire safety training and support safety inspection programs to ensure compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.

“As a former Fire Captain, I know how important it is to follow and stay compliant with the Ontario Fire Code,” said Hardeman. “This new investment by our government will enhance fire safety in Oxford by providing the technology and equipment needed to support training and fire inspections during these unprecedented times.”

Locally, Township of Blandford-Blenheim will receive $6,400; Township of East Zorra-Tavistock will receive $6,300; Town of Ingersoll will receive $7,700; Township of Norwich will receive $7,300; Township of South-West Oxford will receive $6,400; Town of Tillsonburg will receive $8,500; City of Woodstock will receive $14,600; and Township of Zorra will receive $6,600.

The funding is part of a $5 million provincial investment to help municipal fire services respond to the local impacts of COVID-19 which created risks and unprecedented challenges for fire departments to conduct training and fire safety inspections. This one-time funding will enhance in-person and online educational instruction needs by increasing access to additional training.

It will also support updates to specialized critical equipment, such as high-speed internet, to enhance virtual training and enable remote options to support fire safety and compliance with Ontario’s Fire Code while minimizing exposure to the virus.

“Our government has listened to fire services across the province and recognizes the impact COVID-19 has had on their operations,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. “This funding will enhance opportunities for training and support fire safety inspections needed to keep our communities safe. We are grateful to these brave, dedicated individuals for their commitment to protecting Ontarians as the fight against COVID-19 continues.”

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Media inquiries please contact:

Ernie Hardeman, MPP Oxford

(519) 537-5222