South River Machar Fire Department will buy firefighting training materials, through Project Assist – a program from Enbridge Gas Inc. that supplements existing training for Ontario volunteer and composite fire departments.
“Training is essential for our firefighters so they can continue to deliver excellent fire protection services to our residents,” said Fire Chief Risto Maki.
“At Enbridge Gas, safety is our priority. We’re proud to support Ontario firefighters who share our commitment to keeping our communities safe,” said Luke Skaarup, Director, Northern Region Operations, Enbridge Gas
This year’s $100,000 donation from Enbridge Gas will be shared by 20 Ontario fire departments, including the South River Machar Fire Department which will receive $5,000 to purchase the training materials for firefighters to enhance life-saving techniques.
Since the launch of Project Assist in 2012, 174 grants have been provided to Ontario fire departments for additional firefighter training. “Project Assist improves access to training materials for municipal fire departments,” said Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal and Chief, Emergency Management. “Firefighting can be dangerous and unpredictable, and these training materials positively contribute to the health and safety of firefighters and the broader community.”
The South River Machar Fire Department is a single station department operating out of one station located at 148 Ottawa Avenue, South River.
The fire department provides fire protection services to the Village of South River and the Township of Machar. In addition to fire protection services, it also provides auto extrication, remote rescue, ice water rescue, and medical first response services.
The department is staffed by one full-time fire chief and 24 dedicated volunteers.
