master fire plan - Municipality of Meaford

Transcription

MASTER FIRE PLAN
Prepared by:
T L. Powell & Associates Ltd
Cyril Hare & Associates Inc
June-30-2011
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..................................................................................2
1.0 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................3
2.0 METHODOLOGY ....................................................................................4
3.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...........................................................................5
4.0 AUTOMATIC AID AGREEMENTS ............................................................ 13
5.0 OPERATIONAL STAFFING – FULL TIME AND VOLUNTEER .......................... 42
6.0 VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE ............................................. 54
7.0 COMMUNICATIONS ............................................................................. 63
8.0 FIRE STATIONS .................................................................................. 67
9.0 TRAINING .......................................................................................... 71
10.0 WATER SUPPLIES FOR FIREFIGHTING .................................................. 75
11.0 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM .................................................. 82
12.0 FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC EDUCATION ......................................... 84
13.0 FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................ 94
APPENDIX A ............................................................................................. 96
Meaford and Inter Township Vehicle Inventories ........................................... 96
APPENDIX B ........................................................................................... 102
Township of Chatsworth Fire Department Fire Equipment ............................. 102
APPENDIX C ........................................................................................... 105
All Stations Response maps ...................................................................... 105
APPENDIX D ........................................................................................... 109
IFSTA: SAMPLE OF WATER SHUTTLE PRE-INCIDENT PLAN ........................... 109
APPENDIX E ........................................................................................... 111
Fire Chief S Nickels memo to Mr. Free and Council report dated .................... 111
February 13, 2009 .................................................................................. 111
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1.0.
INTRODUCTION
In February 2011, the Municipality of Meaford developed a Request for Proposals
(RFP) to complete a Master Fire Plan (MFP) for the Meaford & District Fire
Department (M&DFD). The proposal called for a review of the M&DFD operations
to set key objectives for it to develop and evolve in a growing municipality and to
determine what is required to allow the department to provide a full range of
services at a desired level while recognizing realities and fiscal restraint.
The purpose of this Master Fire Plan is to assist the Municipality of Meaford in
determining the most appropriate structure and delivery model for fire
emergency services within the municipality and to its customers. With the
autonomy provided to municipal Fire Departments by the Province and the
Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM), municipalities are coming under pressure to achieve
more with less. As a role model for the Province, the Municipality of Meaford is
determined to ensure that fire services are provided in the most effective and
efficient manner possible and that the resources are aligned with the
department‟s evolving mandate.
The specific areas of the Fire Department reviewed included:
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Administration,
Fire Service Delivery, Automatic Aid Agreements
Staffing full time and volunteer,
Firefighter Training,
Fire Prevention and Public Education,
Fire Station (facilities),
Apparatus and Equipment,
Emergency Management Program
Communications,
Water Supplies
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2.0
METHODOLOGY
The consultants used a three phase approach to the study beginning with a start
up phase, followed by an analysis phase and then finally a reporting phase. In
phase one, a start up meeting and reviewed background materials to establish
the scope of work and confirm the list of stakeholders. We also conducted
stakeholder interviews and gathered data from other jurisdictions as part of
phase one. In the phase two, analysis, we developed a number of options for
the pertinent components of the study, developed criteria and evaluated these
with the senior staff of the Municipality. In phase three, the final phase of the
study, we prepared a draft report for review and comment by the Fire Chiefs and
CAO, the comments and observations made were incorporated into the Final
Report.
This assignment was executed using a combination of background research,
stakeholder interviews, and consultation with other jurisdictions and workshops
in order to assemble the necessary information for analysis. Specifically, to
complete the study, the team has:
• Reviewed all pertinent background documentation and previous studies as
provided by M&DFD and ITFD.
•
Reviewed all applicable legislation and Provincial and Municipality policies.
• Interviewed all senior management staff within the department at least once
and in some instances, more than once.
• Conducted interviews with senior management at the Municipality regarding
the project.
• Consulted with the Fire Chiefs and the Municipality‟s stakeholders on analysis,
options and potential recommendations.
• Undertook meetings with the M&DFD volunteer members during the training
night on the Station to seek input and concerns regarding the plan.
•
Prepared a Baseline Report based on M&DFD, ITFD and stakeholder feedback.
• Met with Council of the whole and invited guests to discuss the Automatic Aid
options
• Met with a group of local Fire Chiefs to discuss Automatic Aid and the Master
Fire Plan
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3.0
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
T L. Powell & Associates Ltd was selected by the Municipality to conduct the
Master Fire Plan and used a three phase approach to the study beginning with a
start up phase, followed by an analysis phase and then finally a reporting phase.
An existing benchmarking survey was used to compare the Municipality of
Meaford fire protection delivery system in comparison to similar sized
communities in Ontario.
All of the issues raised have been addressed in detail throughout the report. Fire
Suppression Automatic Aid, the organization structure, the age of the fleet,
training and delivery of fire prevention and public education services, have been
recognized as the challenges needing to be addressed by the Municipality.
Discussions, conclusions and recommendations dealing with the challenges facing
the Meaford and District Fire Department and the Inter Township Fire
Department are contained within the report. In short there is a need to fill the
Deputy Fire Chief‟s position and change the job description to cover the
corporate and department training programs. A realignment of the Fire
Prevention Officers duties to cover the entire Municipality is discussed in this
plan.
Discussion on the various Automatic Aid agreements and in particular the Inter
Township agreement is provided and solutions to deal with the agreements are
included in the plan.
The condition of the vehicle fleet and any challenges are outlined in the report
together with a clear strategy and proposal to ensure a fiscally responsible
approach and manageable process to deal with the implementation of a fleet
replacement.
Recommendations:
Automatic Aid Agreements
1. It is recommended that the construction of a new fire station as outlined in
Options #3 and #4 will provide the highest level of fire protection for the
West side of Meaford. The critical factor in adopting either of these options
is whether sufficient numbers of volunteer Fire Fighters can be recruited to
operate the station.
a. It is further recommended that the primary action should be to
advertise in the local media and through a door to door delivery of
literature to establish a list of volunteers who could staff a volunteer
station located in the Annan area of Meaford.
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b. It is further recommended that an in depth financial audit/analysis
be undertaken by the Meaford Treasurer to determine the most
financially viable option for the management of the station.
c. It is further recommended that the current fire protection agreement
should be negotiated in line with Option #2 for the anticipated 2
years of the transition stage. The with drawl from the partnership
should not be undertaken until such time as the new station can be
constructed and staffed accordingly.
2. It is recommended that a closest fire station response policy be adopted
by the Council.
3. It is recommended that the Meaford Council correspond with the Council of
the Municipality of Blue Mountain requesting a review of the earlier
cancellation of the Automatic Aid Agreement between Meaford and Blue
Mountain.
4. It is recommended that the Grey Highlands Automatic Aid agreement be
presented to Council for ratification and forwarded to the Grey Highlands
municipality.
5. It is recommended that an Automatic Aid agreement be developed with
the Chatsworth Fire Department to service an area to be determined in the
south west district of the Municipality of Meaford.
6. It is recommended that a new road connection between Susan Street and
Ridge Road be planned for inclusion within the Capital program of the
municipality.
7. It is recommended that resurfacing of the south east section of Susan
Street be undertaken ASAP to improve the road travel times for
responding firefighters to the station and fire trucks from the station to the
emergencies in the community.
Operational Staffing – full time and volunteer
8. It is recommended that the establishing By-Law for the Fire Department
be revisited and updated.
9. It is recommended that The Deputy Fire Chief position be reclassified to
full time and to include the responsibility for the training program into the
job description.
10.It is recommended that the Administrative Assistant position be evaluated
and documented related to the time required to carry out all of the
responsibilities of the position and reported back at the 2012 budget
process.
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11.It is recommended that new job descriptions be developed for the
proposed two new full time positions of Deputy Fire Chief/Training Officer
and the Fire Prevention and Public Education Officer.
12.It is recommended that the proposed Organization Chart be adopted by
Council.
Operational Staffing Full time and Volunteer
13.It is recommended that The Fire Departments that service the Municipality
of Meaford endeavour to meet the OFM Guideline “Operational Planning:
An Official Guide to Matching Resources and Risk”.
14.It is recommended that The Municipality establish a policy requiring
Volunteer Firefighters to provide a medical doctors opinion on the physical
condition of Firefighters over the age of 60 (Mandatory full time FF
retirement age in Ontario) to carry out the physical and mental
responsibilities of firefighting.
15.It is recommended that a Task force be established with equal
representation of two (2) members from the Meaford and District Fire
Department and two (2) members from the Inter Township Fire
Department to review both sets of SOG‟s and make a recommendation to
the two Fire Chiefs for one set of SOG‟s for both Fire Departments.
16. It is recommended that the property owners of target properties and
properties that require Fire Safety Plans be required to incorporate the
information for pre-plans in the Fire Safety Plans. These plans should be
maintained by the property owner and stored in a Fire Department
accessible locked box at the main entrance to each designated property.
17.It is recommended that water supply pre-fire plans be developed for the
urban and rural areas of the municipality.
18.It is recommended that an ultimate goal of developing a Pre-Fire Planning
Program be instituted in Meaford. The pre-fire plans should be prepared
by the fire fighters.
19.It is recommended that a training program be implemented to teach the
fire fighters how to prepare pre-fire plans and how to use them during an
emergency.
20.It is recommended that the ultimate goal should be to have pre-plans
stored electronically using a “Tough Books” laptop in the emergency
vehicles and that printers be provided to print hard copies.
21.It is recommended that the pre-fire plans be prepared using NFPA 1620
“Recommended Practice for Pre-Incident Planning” as guidance.
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Vehicle and Equipment maintenance
22.It is recommended that the Fire Departments develop a standard
specification for all types of emergency vehicles.
23.It is recommended that all vehicle and equipment specifications meet
NFPA and ULC standards.
24.It is recommended that all vehicles be maintained in compliance with the
standard NFPA 1911.
25.It is recommended that standard specifications be established for all tools
(SCBA, foam, nozzles, hose, etc.).
26.It is recommended that the equipment compliment for each class of fire
truck in the fleet be standardized. Equipment such as SCBA, hose,
nozzles, appliances, tools, etc. should be standardized and specified for
each new vehicle.
27.It is recommended that the M&DFD telesqurt be replaced with a new 23 m
(75 ft.) aerial/quint.
28.It is recommended that a replacement program be developed for the
replacement of ITFD Truck 2 and Truck 6.
29.It is recommended that pumpers should be configured as pumper rescues
to carry hydraulic rescue equipment. The vehicle should be equipped with
a breathing air cascade and fill station, spare SCBA bottle storage, a
generator and lighting system, sufficient compartments for the required
rescue tools. The vehicle should have a minimum 2300 L (500 gal.) tank
and a minimum 5000 lpm (1050 gpm) pump with a front suction and 45
mm (1 ¾ in.) trash line. The vehicle should be equipped with a Class A/B
foam system, pre-piped removable deluge, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) and 65 mm
(2 ½ in.) pre-connects, hose bed, storage compartments, ground ladders
and 10 m (30 ft.) of hard or soft suction.
30.It is recommended that aerial specifications be based upon a 4 door
chassis with a 23 m (75 ft.) ladder, minimum 2300 L. (500 gal.) tank and
a minimum 5000 lpm (1050 gpm) pump with a front suction. The vehicle
should be equipped with a Class A/B foam system, pre-piped ladder
deluge, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) and 65 mm (2 ½ in.) pre-connects, hose bed,
storage compartments, ground ladders and 10 m (30 ft.) of hard or soft
suction.
31.It is recommended that tanker specifications be based upon a conventional
2 door chassis with a 11300 L (2500 gal.) tank with rear and side quick
dumps. The vehicle should be equipped with a PTO 4000 lpm (840 gpm)
pump, Class A/B foam system, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) pre-connects, hose bed,
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ground ladders, and storage compartments. The vehicle should have a
porta-tank that has a capacity equal to the tank size. It should carry a
portable pump (minimum size 2300 lpm (500 gpm)) and 10 m (30 ft.) of
hard or soft suction for the pump and the portable.
32.It is recommended that all new pumping vehicles be equipped with front
mounted pre-connect hose lines.
33.It is recommended that thermal imaging cameras be provided for every
pumper and rescue.
34.It is recommended that all new traffic lights that are installed should be
equipped with traffic light pre-emption.
35.It is recommended that a program be developed to install traffic light preemption emitters on all M&DFD apparatus.
36.It is recommended that a computer based tracking system be
implemented for the inspection, testing and maintenance of the vehicles
and equipment.
37.It is recommended that a compressor and fill station be provided at the
M&DFD fire station.
38.It is recommended that reserve funds be established and funded annually
for the replacement of vehicles and equipment.
Communications
39.It is recommended that the M&DFD should continue to use the services of
the Hanover Police Department Communications Centre for the
foreseeable future.
40.It is recommended that the ITFD transmitter should be equipped with a
standby emergency generator.
41.It is recommended that the M&DFD should have its own operating
frequency. M&DFD should apply to Industry Canada for a new emergency
radio frequency.
42. It is recommended that a radio coverage survey be conducted and the
appropriate upgrades made to the radio system.
43.It is recommended that the M&DFD and ITFD should investigate if there is
additional software available on the Police Department Communications
Centre CAD that could be used to improve dispatch information and
statistical analysis.
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44.It is recommended that the M&DFD and ITFD should explore possible
opportunities for a regionalized approach to radio and dispatch systems
with the Grey and Bruce Fire Services, Police Services and Ambulance
Service.
Fire Station Facilities
45. It is recommended that a portable generator capable of maintaining a
power supply to the fire station be purchased and located at the M&DFD
Fire Station.
46. It is recommended that the M&DFD Station electrical panel/system be
reconfigured to enable the portable Generator to provide full power to the
station in the event of a loss of power.
Training
47. It is recommended that a full time Training Instructor be hired with the
minimum qualification of a Master Trainer Facilitator and given the title of
Deputy Chief/Training.
48. It is recommended that a comprehensive and documented testing of
Firefighters upon completion of the lesson plans be undertaken. The test
records must indicate the level of competency achieved by each Firefighter
and the results of any practical tests or exercises.
49.It is recommended that all members of the Fire Department be trained to
NFPA 472 operation level.
50. It is recommended that that a needs assessment study be undertaken to
determine the practical training facility needs of the department. The
study should outline recommendations including the building and site
requirements and the potential location of the facility.
a. It is further recommended that a financial plan be developed to fund
the construction and equipment needs of the training facility.
b. It is further recommended that opportunities to deliver training
instruction at a M&DFD training facility to other emergency services
and industry be investigated.
Water Supplies for Firefighting
51.It is recommended that the current water main replacement program
continue and that all old cast iron mains and 100 mm (4 in.) mains be
replaced as funding permits.
52.It is recommended that water supply pre-plans be prepared for the urban
and rural areas of Meaford and for the large fire risks in Meaford.
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53.It is recommended that a survey of buildings required by the Building
Code to have a water supply adequate for fire fighting be carried out and
those properties that have deficiencies be required to take corrective
measures.
54.It is recommended that a survey be conducted of the municipality to
identify all static and impounded water sources. A program should be
instituted to install dry hydrants at strategic locations to facilitate water
drafting by the fire department.
55.It is recommended that impounded water supplies (ponds, cisterns or
reservoirs) be provided in areas such as residential subdivisions that are
not protected with water mains and fire hydrants.
56.It is recommended that a water supply training program be provided to
the fire fighters including the operation of the municipal water system and
the use of alternate water supplies.
57.It is recommended that a superior tanker shuttle certification for the areas
protected by the Meaford & District FD, be conducted with the Fire
Underwriters Survey.
58.It is recommended that a maintenance program be developed for the
inspection and maintenance of dry hydrants.
Emergency Management Program
59.It is recommended that the proposed full time Deputy Fire Chief be
appointed to act as a third alternate CEMC to the Fire Chief.
60.It is recommended that an alternate EOC location for the Emergency
Management Program be considered away from the downtown area of
Meaford.
61.It is recommended that the emergency planning exercises be elevated to a
full field exercise in 2012.
Fire Prevention and Public Education
62.It is recommended that a job description with minimum qualifications
based upon the Ontario Fire Service Standards for Fire Prevention Officers
be developed for the FPO.
63.It is recommended that the FPO position be filled as a fulltime fire
prevention/public education position and that the position be responsible
for fire prevention/public education in the entire Municipality of Meaford.
64.It is recommended that the FPO provide input to the Building Department
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regarding fire protection systems for large buildings and occupancies or
processes regulated by the Fire Code.
65.It is recommended that the Fire Department be involvement in the
Building Permit process for large buildings.
66.It is recommended that the volunteer Fire Fighters continue to participate
in public education events. The volunteer Fire Fighters should receive
training in the delivery of fire safety programs.
67.It is recommended that A Fire Safety Plans Box Bylaw be drafted and
presented to Council.
68.It is recommended that Fire Safety Plans for health care facilities and
facilities housing persons who have difficulty evacuating, be reviewed
using the objectives set out in NFPA 101 and NFPA 101A. Where facilities
are unable to meet these objectives, Inspection Orders should be issued to
upgrade the facilities to meet these objectives.
69.It is recommended that pre-fire plans be developed for high life risk and
high fire risk facilities in Meaford.
70.It is recommended that a fire safety house trailer or similar resources be
purchase and that opportunities for fund raising be investigated with public
service clubs and community organizations.
This could be a
County/Regional initiative.
71.It is recommended that an elementary school delivered fire safety
program such as NFPA „s Risk Watch be implemented with the school
boards. This could be a County/Regional initiative.
72.It is recommended that a Home Fire Safety Program be developed and
delivered by the volunteer fire fighting crews.
73.It is recommended that a consolidated property database be developed for
use by the FPO and other municipal departments.
74.It is recommended that the parking bylaw be amended and presented to
Council. The bylaw should include prohibitions for parking in fire routes
and provide the fire department and other emergency agencies with the
authority to remove vehicles that obstruct emergency access.
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4.0AUTOMATIC AID AGREEMENTS
The Automatic Aid agreements (delivery of services from other jurisdictions) were
a popular discussion point with many of the stakeholders affecting the delivery of
fire protection services to all areas of the municipality. The most often topic
raised is the costs and level of service in relation to the Inter Township
Partnership Agreement.
It is apparent that the response zones of each fire Station in the area is not
determined by the closest Station but rather the Political boundaries of former
and current municipalities. There are some obvious improvements that could be
made to the level of service in some areas, should the closest fire Station
respond to the emergency calls.
Cancellation of the Blue Mountain Agreement
The Blue Mountain agreement was designed to provide for a first emergency
response vehicle to the area
between the Blue Mountain and
Meaford Townline on the south and
the third line on the north to the
30th Sideroad on the west. The
former Fire Chief of Meaford
provided a memorandum to the
Mayor and Council of Meaford on
February 13, 2009 informing them
of the cancellation of the automatic
aid agreement. The memorandum
explained the concerns raised and
the decisions taken, in addition a
copy of a memorandum to Mr.
David Free dated November, 2,
2006 was provide following a request from Mr. Free for the Fire Chiefs comment
about the impending agreement cancellation.
The proposal by Fire Chief Nickels to Mr. Free appears to be a reasonable
compromise that could serve as a base for further discussion with Blue Mountain
Council should the Meaford Council considers the need for a re-evaluation of the
situation. We believe that having Blue Mountain Fire Department respond one
first response vehicle to fire or rescue incidents only with a minimum of four
Firefighters would have a very limited impact on the ability of Blue Mountain fire
protection services in their own (S Nickels memo to Mr. Free and report to
Council dated February 13, 2009 attached, Appendix “D”).
From a statistical point of view the number of fire and/or rescue calls from this
area statistics show less than 10 emergency responses annually. This is not an
exorbitant demand for service. However to the home owner who needs the
services of the Fire Department, one call for assistance is most significant.
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The consultants met with the Fire Chief of Blue Mountain and were told that the
reason for the cancellation is the concern of staffing of the Blue Mountain Fire
Department, particularly of a day time when many of the volunteers are working
out of Town. We have sympathy for that concern however there are 7 full time
positions on the department and we understand if the 2011 budget passes this
spring there will be an addition to the volunteer compliment in both Stations.
Given the emergency vehicle inventory of the Blue Mountain Fire Department and
the changes in the staffing model it appears from an outsider looking in to be
adequate coverage for the first response vehicle out of the Blue Mountain Station
1. In addition it could be a condition of any agreement that the first response
vehicle from Blue Mountain could be given an early release from the emergency
once the Meaford Fire Department arrived on scene and took over the incident.
Blue Mountain Fire Department
Emergency Vehicle Inventory
STATION 1.
Year
Type
2006
Water Tank
Size
Notes
Pumper/Rescue 1250 GPM
600 Gall
First
Response
1990
Pumper
840 GPM
800 Gall
Out of Service
1979
Pumper
840 GPM
800 Gall
Back up to
first response
2009
Tanker/Pumper
1050 GPM
3000 Gall
First response
rural
2004
Tanker
2000 Gall
Back up
Tanker
2004
Zodiac Boat
N/A
Water Rescue
Pumping
capacity
N/A
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Blue Mountain Fire Department
Emergency vehicle Inventory
STATION 2.
2011
Pumper/Rescue 1250 GPM
1990
Quick Attack
200 GPM
2004
75‟ Aerial
Truck
1650 GPM
1987
Tanker
unknown
ATV
800 Gall
First
Response
First
Response
200 Gall
First
Response
1800 Gall
N/A
N/A
Off road
Rescue
Grey Highlands Agreement
The consultants have been advised that the Grey Highland Automatic Aid
Agreement has not been formally adopted at the time of writing this plan. There
appears to be an agreement on the level of service to be provided by the
Municipality of Meaford to Grey Highlands that needs to be ratified by the parties.
The agreement became necessary as the area in question was protected through
an agreement that Grey Highlands had with Blue Mountain Fire Department. Blue
Mountain cancelled the agreement apparently for the same reasons they
cancelled the Meaford Fire Department Agreement that is an issue of staffing.
The Grey Highland Agreement provides for the Meaford Fire Department to
respond into the north east district of Grey Highlands with Automatic Aid that is
the first response to the emergency. There is a provision for fee for services
rendered for each call into that district.
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Inter- Township Agreement
The Inter Township Emergency
Service Agreement was put in place
6th December 2000 to provide fire
protection services to the rural west
side of the Municipality of Meaford.
The agreement was a continuation of
a long standing partnership with the
former townships that now comprise
the Municipality of Georgian Bluffs.
This agreement was the subject of
much discussion with the stakeholders
a few who are reasonably happy with
the service, others who want to
explore other options for the delivery
of fire protection services to reduce
the cost and some who believe the cost is too much and consideration should be
given to other delivery systems.
The municipality is a 25% owner of the Inter Township Fire Department in
accordance with an agreement that expired on 31st December 2010. The
agreement was renewed for 6 months.
The agreement provides in clause 17(e) and sub clause (i) the following
17(e) A party desiring to cease participation in the Department and Board
shall be subject to the provisions of clause 19(a) and 17(d) hereof
and will be compensated by the remaining party based on the
following formulae.
(i)
50% of it’s share of the fair market value of all
assets of the department as determined by an
independent appraiser chosen and approved by the
Board, together with 50% of it’s share of all reserve
fund.
Clause 19(a) determines the date of separation should a party choose to leave as
follows:
19
In the event that any party to this agreement wishes to cease
participating in the fire board, they may do so provided that:
(a)
One (1) years written notice be given to the other
party. Any written notice given as afore said shall
terminate this agreement as of December 31st of the
following year in which notice is given.
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Should the Municipality of Meaford provide notice of termination this year 2011
the agreement would cease on December 31st 2012.
The 2010 accounts show the following Budgeted for the Inter Township current
agreement:
$121,000.00 Annual standby fee
$ 40,535.00 payment for responses to emergency incidents
$ 25,000.00 contribution to the capital budget program
$186,535.00 Total contribution
In addition the Provincial Government provides $410.00 per truck for each hour
the Fire Department attends to incidents on the highway (traffic accidents of
vehicle fires). The consultants were informed that the Municipality of Meaford is
not charged for the responses when the incidents occur on Provincial Highways.
In order to provide an understanding of the various discussions and options
suggested by the stakeholders we have broken them down below into a series of
options for further discussion purposes;
1. Option 1. Status Quo. Renew the current agreement and continue on with
the current level of service.
.
2. Option 2. Renegotiate current agreement. Renegotiate the agreement to
provide for the closest fire Station to respond and for the Meaford Fire
Prevention Officer to take over all of the Fire Prevention Duties within the
Municipality of Meaford boundaries.
3. Option 3. New Volunteer Station Meaford Fire Department. Establish a
volunteer Fire Station in the West side of the Municipality of Meaford to
provide all fire protection services to the west side of the municipality and
withdraw from the Inter Township Agreement December 31st 2012.
4. Option 4. New Volunteer Station Inter Township Fire Department.
Establish a volunteer Fire Station in the West side of the Municipality of
Meaford to provide all fire protection services to the west side of the
municipality managed and operated by the Inter Township Board of
Directors under the Direction of the Inter Township Fire Chief.
5. Option 5. Joining the Meaford Fire Department and Inter Township Fire
Department under one Fire Chief. Consolidation of the two departments to
provide fire protection to the entire Inter Township response district and
Meaford Fire Department response district.
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Option 1. Status Quo
Renew the current agreement and continue on with the current level of
service.
The most common concerns raised were the cost of the agreement on an annual
basis and the lack of control the Council of the Municipality of Meaford have over
the escalating costs in particular the contribution to the Capital program which
fluctuates annually.
Several stakeholders talked about the need to improve the level of service to the
area by having the closest fire Station respond to emergency incidents. In
particular the long travel distances due to the location of the Inter Township
Station on the West side of the City of Owen Sound.
This location of the Inter Township station is believed by many stakeholders to be
a detriment to the road response time as the Inter Township fire trucks must find
their way through the busy streets of downtown Owen Sound when responding to
the west side of the Municipality of Meaford.
A question was also asked why the Municipality of Meaford Fire Prevention Officer
is not providing the fire prevention and inspection services to the entire
municipality. Currently the Inter Township Fire Department provides the fire
prevention and inspection service to the west side of the Meaford municipality as
part of the current agreement.
Both of the Fire Departments operate independently. Coordination of services by
both departments could benefit the delivery of fire services in all of Meaford. The
training programs of each department are compatible sharing of resources and
lesson plans would ensure the on going services are improved. Each Fire
Departments under the direction different masters ITFD reports to the Board of
Directors and the Meaford and District FD reports to the Municipality of Meaford
Council.
Continuation of the agreement in its current form will do nothing to change the
current level of service being provided to the west side of Meaford. There would
be no other costs other than the normal annual budget costs of 25% of the
operational budget and an annual unspecified contribution to the Capital
program.
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Option 2. Renegotiate current agreement
Renegotiate the agreement to provide for the closest fire Station to
respond and for the Meaford Fire Prevention Officer to take over all of
the Fire Prevention Duties within the Municipality of Meaford boundaries.
The cost of the agreement even with the minor changes mentioned above was
the most common concern raised. It is believed that under the current agreement
only minor financial changes would be made and it would have little effect on the
Capital financial commitment that Meaford would have to continue to provide.
This was confirmed by the Inter Township Fire Chief who advised that the Fire
Department would still have the same requirements to maintain the staff and
Station no matter how much of the west district of Meaford that they now
respond to was covered by another Station.
It is believed by many of the stakeholders that having the closest fire Station
respond will be an improvement in the level of service and should not incur any
additional costs to the current agreement. The Meaford fire Station only responds
to the former political boundary of St Vincent and the Sydenham boundary lines.
When in fact the Station road response travel distance between the two Stations
(Inter and Meaford) is some considerable distance further west.
The possibility of an
Automatic Aid
agreement with the
Chatsworth Fire
Department to service
an area that is north of
and within 5 Kilometre
of the Chatsworth
Station was also raised
by a stakeholder.
The consultants visited
the Chatsworth fire
Station and met with
the Fire Chief, who
appeared to be open to
a discussion of
Automatic Aid (fee for
service) to the area north of his Station within the Municipality of Meaford. In fact
the Fire Chief indicated that some of the residents in that area were asking why
his department can not respond to them if there was an emergency.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 19
A copy of the equipment available in Chatsworth is attached as Appendix “B”.
Chatsworth Fire Department
Emergency vehicle Inventory
1993
Pumper
840 GPM
1000 G
First Response
2001
Pumper/Tanker 840 GPM
1500 G
First Response
2009
Rescue #3
N/A
N/A
First Response
2005
Rescue
Support #5
RTV
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Medical
Responses
Wildland Fires
and Rescue
2010
The cost of the delivery of the fire prevention and inspection services provided by
the Inter Township Fire Prevention Officer is not clear in either the agreement or
the budget papers as there is no discussion in the agreement on this subject.
It is believed that the Inter Township Fire Department undertook to deliver all of
the services of fire protection and fire prevention under this agreement. Given
that the Municipality of Meaford is a 25% partner it is reasonable to assume that
25% of the cost of the FPO duties and responsibilities are allocated to the
Municipality of Meaford that could be recoverable, should the decision be made to
provide all Fire prevention responsibilities through the Meaford & District Fire
Department.
The current method of budget allocation and monitoring of the budget
expenditures was raised as a concern, it was suggested that this could be
rectified with a new agreement addressing these two issues.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 20
Option 3. New Volunteer Station Meaford Fire Department
Meaford to provide all fire protection services to the west side of the
municipality and withdraw from the Inter Township Agreement
December 31st 2012.
This option would provide for the establishment of a Volunteer Fire Station in the
west area of Meaford. There are two locations identified that could provide the
fire protection services to the residents. The former Sydenham municipal building
located on highway 26 and Grey Road 11. The second location is on Grey Road
15 at Annan. The new station would be known as the Station 2, (Sydenham
Station) Meaford and District Fire Department.
This was a popular option with many of the stakeholders providing the costs of
establishing and maintaining the fire Station would be within a reasonable range
of the current costs of the Inter Township Agreement. Some stakeholders
believed that even if the cost of the option was higher than the current
agreement the improved level of service and Insurance premium reductions that
residents would be eligible for, would justify the expense. The fact that the
Meaford Municipal Council would have total control of the cost of the fire
protection program for the Municipality was also seen as a positive.
A concern was raised by a stakeholder that there are insufficient numbers of
volunteers in the West side of Meaford to staff a volunteer Fire Station. It is
understood that there are 9 or 10 members of the Inter Township Fire
Department that reside in Meaford or the east side of Owen Sound that may want
to join a Station that protects their own and neighbours homes. Advertisement
for the volunteers in the local media and through the tax bills could provide a
clear indication of the number of potential volunteers that may want to support a
new Station in their area.
It was further discussed that the numbers of residents and the demographics of
the population does not indicate the possibility of many volunteers being
available within a three mile radius of either of the two potential site for the
station.
It has been suggested that the capital costs of achieving this option would be off
set by the 50% of the 25% appraisal amount of the Inter Township Fire
Department assets indicated earlier within the agreement. Combined with the
Annual costs of the current agreement $186,535.00 which would revert to the
municipality. In addition the provincial recovery costs of emergency responses to
the Provincial highways now at $410.00 per hour per truck would be returned to
the municipality.
The Fire Chief of the Inter Township Fire Department has indicated that he would
refuse to respond to Meaford under the County Mutual Aid Plan if Meaford
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 21
constructs a new volunteer fire station and withdraws from the current Inter
Township Fire Department partnership. The Inter Township Partnership Board are
charged with determining the level of service the Inter Township Fire Department
provides it is not known if that Board supports the Fire Chiefs statement.
In the vent of Meaford with drawing from the partnership then it will be the
Municipality of Georgian Bluffs who will determine the level of service and the
extent of the Automatic or Mutual Aid they will provide to their neighbours.
It was suggested that a possible location of a new fire station is at Highway 26
and Grey Road 11. The service centre now used by the OPP and the works
department could be converted partially to house the quarters for the volunteers
and the OPP office. The Works Department office and meeting room could be
relocated to a renovated office section of the works building and a prefabricated
metal garage double bay section could be added to the site.
A second option for consideration is the hamlet of Annan in the general area of
the ball diamond. This location may prove to be beneficial for the recruitment of
volunteers as the largest population on the west side of the municipality resides
in and outside of Owen Sound and along the shoreline of the bay. Records
indicate that there are 820 properties within 5 miles of the proposed station.
In order to achieve options #3 a comprehensive implementation plan may include
the following steps subject to the location chosen:
Advertising for volunteers for the new Station once the final location is
decided
Funding in 2011 for phase one that would include land purchase if
necessary, architectural and engineering drawings
Depending upon the location chosen, the renovations to the Works garage
to house the Foreman and a meeting/lunch room for works staff or the
construction of a new fire station.
Notification to the Inter Township Board of Directors of the intention of
Meaford to end the agreement effective 31st December 2012.
Recuperate the 50% of the 25% ownership in Inter Township agreement
Training and equipping the new volunteers to begin delivering emergency
responses commencing January 2013.
2012 - $650,000 to purchase and equip emergency vehicles
2012 - $50,000.00 Funding for the renovations of the Sydenham municipal
building to accommodate 20 volunteers, washrooms and OPP room. Plus
$350,000 to construct a new apparatus garage with a equipment
maintenance room and a meeting/training room or
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 22
2012 - $350,000 to construct a new fire station in Annan.
Typical steel frame building designed to house Fire Apparatus. Simple construct
that could be erected in either of the two options for the location
Option #4 New Volunteer Station Inter Township Fire Department
Meaford in locations identified in option #3 to provide all fire protection
services to the west side of the municipality managed and operated by
the Inter Township Board of Directors under the Direction of the Inter
Township Fire Chief.
This option would provide for the establishment of a Volunteer Fire Station as
outlined in option #3.
On a positive note it was suggested by a Inter Township stakeholder that the
volunteers from the West side of Meaford who are now employed by the Inter
Township Fire Department could be assigned to Station 2, Sydenham. He also
stated that adding local volunteer FF will be equally as challenging as Option #3.
It was further suggested that if this option was to be chosen that Inter Township
FD would respond automatically to every emergency call in the west Meaford
District to support the new station. This action will of course increase the cost to
Meaford for duplicate vehicle response.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 23
The disadvantage of this option over option #3 is the cost of the current
agreement would increase to cover the costs of more staffing and maintaining a
second Station by the Inter Township Fire Department. The total construction and
equipment costs estimated at one million dollars would be the responsibility of
Meaford Tax payers as there would be no savings from the current cost of the
current agreement to offset the additional cost of a new Station #2. With Option
#3 the savings from the partnership agreement would provide a considerable
funds to cover the start up and ongoing costs of running the station.
Option #5 Consolidation of the Meaford Fire Department and Inter
Township Fire Department together, under one Fire Chief.
This option would join the two departments to provide fire protection to
the entire Inter Township and Meaford Fire Department response
district.
This option was proposed by a stakeholder to consolidate the two delivery
systems and staff a proposed third Station in the former Sydenham Township.
In general terms an amalgamation of delivery systems should be carried out to
improve the delivery system and reduce the cost of the services. It is not clear
how this option will achieve a financial reduction, in fact an additional cost on top
of what is now paid by the Municipality of Meaford for fire protection would be
anticipated.
Many amalgamations took place in 1998 across Ontario and it became clear that
little if any savings are achieved with amalgamation. Service levels tend to
elevate the services to the highest level for service, currently the Inter Township
rates for payment to the Firefighters is in excess of the Meaford rates. Salary
grades and staffing, any savings made with reduced number of managers or Fire
Chiefs are taken up with new positions of supporting roles such as Station Chiefs.
Amalgamation of the Meaford and District Fire Department with the Inter
Township Fire Department would require a new Partnership agreement with the
municipality of Meaford paying the largest share of the partnership. With 100% of
the Meaford Station and 25% of the Inter Township Station they would have the
majority of the members on any future partnership board agreement.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 24
Closest Station Response
The closest Station response is the basic concept adopted in the Ontario fire
services. Simply put the Station with the least road travel distance is the Station
that responds to the emergency incident. The current response areas in Meaford
are established on the former political boundaries and do not provide for this very
simple closest Station response concept.
When determining the location of a volunteer Fire Station consideration must be
given to the demand for service and the area most likely to produce the required
number of volunteers to staff the Station. It is known that the Inter Township has
9 members on the department that are from the east side of Owen Sound and
locations within the response zone of the former municipality of Sydenham.
Given that the new station is designed to protect the former municipality of
Sydenham it is reasonable to assume that the Firefighters who live in the district
would want to serve in the new station that protects their own and neighbours
properties. They could possibly form the core leadership of a new sub Station.
Experienced Firefighters who have the ability and experience to lead a new
station would be a good choices for Station Chief and Captains.
The following diagram demonstrates the locations of the Meaford volunteers to
the Meaford fire Station. Building a volunteer Station in a location that may
appear geographically to cover an area may not be the best location if volunteers
have to travel from a fire demand zone to pick up a fire truck and then return
back into the area to deal with an incident. The Meaford Station is ideally located
in relation to the availability of sufficient numbers of volunteers.
Municipalities strive for volunteers who live and work within 5 K of a Fire station
to ensure that there are sufficient numbers of volunteers for day time and night
time coverage. Often employees of the municipality who are in and around the
district prove to be a valuable resource to volunteer organizations and can
provide the day time response when other residents who are volunteers are
working out side of the desired zone or the municipality.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 25
MEAFORD VFF MAP
The Volunteer force in Meaford has 11 of the members who live in and work in
the urban area, which is an ideal situation for staffing a volunteer station.
It was stated by some of the stakeholders that there are no Hamlets or
subdivisions in the west side of Meaford that could provide a number of volunteer
FF within 5 kilometers of the proposed sites.
There is a plan in the municipality to construct a connection between Susan
Street and Ridge Road. This proposal will improve the response capabilities of the
Fire Department to high risk buildings in the Nelson Road vicinity and reduce the
response time of some of the volunteer FF to the fire station.
Resurfacing of Susan Street on the eastern section will also improve the response
times of the Fire Department to the downtown area.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 26
The consultants assisted by the Meaford Planning Department using a GIS
computer based program have developed a series of maps (attached Appendix C)
that show the different configurations of the Station response areas of Meaford,
Chatsworth, Inter Township and Blue Mountain FD‟s and the improved fire
response times with the addition of a sub Station in the west side of Meaford.
The maps show how the response roads travel time of fire trucks from the Station
locations in the following colours;
5 minutes green,
10 minutes white,
15 minutes yellow
20 minutes red.
The response times for our mapping were determined by using the posted speed
limits for the roads and the distance on each segment of road. These response
times do not include the time required for fire fighters to assemble at the fire
station and get the trucks on the road. The response times provided by ITFD
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 27
were shorter than those predicted, however the ITFD Fire Chief stated that their
trucks travel in excess of the posted speed limits at speeds up to 130 kph. When
considering all types of weather conditions, the posted speed limit provides a
safer prediction of travel time.
Response times for Fire Departments are often described using only the road
travel time when in fact fire growth begins when the fire ignites. The graph above
indicates all of the various times that impact the response times to fires the only
time period that is missing is the time it takes for volunteers to respond to the
station to drive the fire truck to the scene.
In Ontario it is generally accepted that the average time for the volunteers to
respond to the station is 3 minutes. In fact it is understood that anywhere from 2
to 5 minutes is probable depending upon the time of day or night, weather
conditions and the distances the volunteers reside in from the station.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 28
The first Map 1. The map identifies the current locations Meaford Fire Department
and Inter Township Station response capabilities. Large portions of the lakeshore
north of Leith are in the 15 to 20 minutes and above response zones. This area
contains a large portion of the population of Meaford west.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 29
Map 2 the map identifies the coverage of the inclusion of a Station within the
hamlet of Annan. The area along the coast line and north of Annan as well as
large portions of Meaford west receive a much improved time response coverage
and potentially subsequent improved insurance premiums when a residence is
located within 8 km of a fire Station.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 30
Map 3 identifies the coverage of the inclusion of a Fire Station located on the old
Sydenham Municipal office site on Hyw 26. This response zone also shows an
improved coverage along the shore line and north of Leith but obviously not to
the same degree as the proposed location in Annan. The improvement to the
south is greater than the Annan site however there is a lower population and
therefore reduced risk coverage to the southern response zone.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 31
Map 4 identifies the coverage of the Chatsworth Fire Station responses. The
improved protection to the south west of Meaford provided by the inclusion of the
Chatsworth FD response is clearly demonstrated. In particular the 5 minute
response zone would dramatically improve the fire protection to that area.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 32
Map 6 shows the overall protection of the new proposed Station in Annan and the
fee for service proposed contract with Chatsworth together with the increased
response area of the Meaford Fire Station.
With the inclusion of an Automatic Aid agreement with the Blue Mountain Fire
Department the fire response all over the municipality of Meaford will be at the
optimum level that should serve the residents of the municipality for many years.
Future considerations for a third station in the south central area of Bognor will
depend upon the growth of the communities in and around the district.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 33
Conclusions
The cancellation of the Blue Mountain response agreement resulted in an
increased response road travel time from the Meaford and District Fire
Department for residents who benefited from the response agreement. It would
serve a useful purpose for the Municipality of Meaford to correspond with the
municipal Council of Blue Mountain to seek a resolve to the reasons raised by the
Blue Mountain Fire Chief in an attempt to resurrect the agreement in the interest
of public safety in the south east area of Meaford.
The consultants have been advised at the time of writing this plan that the Grey
Highland Automatic Aid Agreement has not been formally adopted. There appears
to be an agreement on the level of service to be provided by the Municipality of
Meaford to Grey Highlands that needs to be ratified by the parties.
Several options for the delivery of fire protection emergency response to the
former Sydenham area have been discussed and considered. The option to locate
a second fire station in the west of the Municipality of Meaford provides improved
response coverage, with a downside of additional costs for construction and
equipment.
A new volunteer station in west Meaford will provide an improved level of fire
protection to the area bringing over 800 properties within the 8 km zone of an
operational fire station servicing their properties. This will result in a faster
emergency response to the area in the event of an emergency incident and
provide them with a potential reduction of their fire insurance by residing within 8
K proximity to a fire station.
STATION LOCATION
PROPERTIES WITHIN 8 k
Meaford M&DFD district
3,361
Annan, proposed location
806
Sydenham Township Office, location
800
Inter Township FD district
220
The unknown question is “are there sufficient numbers of potential volunteers in
the immediate areas of the two sites to staff the station?” We are advised by the
Fire Chiefs of the area that there are not and this could prove to be a serious
problem in time to come in maintaining the station with volunteer staffing.
Two locations are explored in this plan:
Sydenham works yard on highway 26 and
A location not site specific in the Annan area
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 34
Both locations will cover over 800 properties for insurance purposes and a much
improved road travel time response for the fire trucks to a greater portion of the
west district of Meaford. Currently there are 220 properties within the Inter
Township 8 k response area. However the Annan location may be more
advantageous when it comes to the combination of residential and working
location of volunteers who could eventually staff the station.
The response of Chatsworth Fire Department into the south west area of Meaford
could provide an improved fire protection response to that area. There is a
willingness of the Chatsworth Fire Chief to support an automatic aid agreement
between the two municipalities.
A new road connection between Susan Street and Ridge Road would improve the
response road travel time to high risk properties in the Nelson Road vicinity and
improve the response to station time of some of the volunteers that reside in that
area.
Recommendations
1.
It is recommended that the construction of a new fire station as outlined in
Options #3 and #4 will provide the highest level of fire protection for the West
side of Meaford. The critical factor in adopting either of these options is whether
sufficient numbers of volunteer Fire Fighters can be recruited to operate the
station.
b. It is further recommended that the primary action should be to
advertise in the local media and through a door to door delivery of
literature to establish a list of volunteers who could staff a volunteer
station located in the Annan area of Meaford.
c. It is further recommended that an in depth financial audit/analysis
be undertaken by the Meaford Treasurer to determine the most
financially viable option for the management of the station.
d. It is further recommended that the current fire protection agreement
should be negotiated in line with Option #2 for the anticipated 2
years of the transition stage. The with drawl from the partnership
should not be undertaken until such time as the new station can be
constructed and staffed accordingly.
2. It is recommended that a closest fire station response policy be adopted by
the Council.
3. It is recommended that the Meaford Council correspond with the Council of
the Municipality of Blue Mountain requesting a review of the earlier
cancellation of the Automatic Aid Agreement between Meaford and Blue
Mountain.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 35
4. It is recommended that the Grey Highlands Automatic Aid agreement be
presented to Council for ratification and forwarded to the Grey Highlands
municipality.
5. It is recommended that an Automatic Aid agreement be developed with the
Chatsworth Fire Department to service an area to be determined in the
south west district of the Municipality of Meaford.
6. It is recommended that a new road connection between Susan Street and
Ridge Road be planned for inclusion within the Capital program of the
municipality.
7. It is recommended that resurfacing of the south east section of Susan
Street be undertaken ASAP to improve the road travel times for
responding firefighters to the station and fire trucks from the station to
the emergencies in the community.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 36
5.0
ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION
The Name of the Meaford and District Fire Department (M&DFD) needs to be
reconsidered given that the services provide have transitioned over time into a
fire and rescue service. Many fire departments across Canada and in Ontario are
adopting the two words fire and rescue into their names. Another Factor is the
introduction of the Emergency Management Act and the responsibilities placed on
the Fire Department through the Fire Chiefs appointment as the CEMC.
In order to use a title that is more indicative of the services now provided it may
be time to consider one of the options listed below;
Meaford Fire Department, or
Meaford Emergency and Fire Services
Meaford Fire Services, or
Meaford Fire and Rescue Services.
The Establishing by-law for the Fire Department will need to be revisited to
ensure the level of service provided by the Fire Department is clearly supported
by the Council and the direction of the various services being delivered are clearly
identified.
The M&DFD is operating under the current organization that includes the
following rank structure;
Current Organization Chart for
Municipality of Meaford
Meaford and District Fire Department
CAO
Fire Chief
Administrative Assistant
Part Time
Deputy Chief
Part Time
Fire Prevention Officer
Part Time
4 Volunteer Captains
20 Volunteer Firefighters
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 37
The M&DFD has one-full time position the Fire Chief, a part time position of
Deputy Fire Chief, a full time position of Fire Prevention Officer/Corporate Trainer
and a Administrative Assistant. There are no full-time Firefighters in the M&DFD.
All operational suppression staff are volunteers.
The administration of the Fire Department is subject to mandatory requirements
of reporting and retention of emergency response records to the Ontario Fire
Marshal and the administrative needs of the Municipality as it relates to the
financial and administrative records of the Municipality. Compounding these
issues are the day-to-day demands of running an organization of 2 ½ full time
employees and 24 part time employees (volunteers are paid by the Municipality
for their work).
It is noted that the cover for the Fire Chief during vacations or illness is on a
rotating basis between 4 Captains. While the volunteer Captains can cover for the
emergency response and some of the mandatory requirements of the recording
and reporting to the Fire Marshal, all other duties and responsibilities of running
the organization must wait for the return of the Fire Chief to duty.
After meeting with all the stakeholders several additional weaknesses in the
existing organisation structure were apparent. The following is a listing of the
identified weaknesses:
The Deputy Fire Chiefs position is vacant those responsibilities are being
carried out by the volunteer Captains, which means there are no financial
savings by not filling this position.
The Fire Chief has no executive administrative cover when he is out of
Town or on vacation.
The Fire Chief is also the Community Emergency Management Coordinator
responsible for the requirements under the Emergency Management Act of
Ontario. He is responsible for the entire municipality, however he does not
control the fire services for the west side of Meaford.
Some of the Fire Prevention Services required under the Fire Protection
and Prevention Act (FPPA) by the municipality are not carried out in their
entirety by the Meaford FPO.
During the process of developing the Master Fire Plan The Fire Prevention
Officer responsibilities for the corporate Training has been taken away from
the job description of the FPO. The position is now vacant.
The strong autonomy of each Station (Inter Township FD and Meaford &
District FD) adversely affect standardisation in training, incident command
and communication across the municipality.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 38
The Fire Department is in need of a new organization chart and reporting
structure that reflects the current situation and future anticipated growth
of the Fire Department.
It appears that the Fire Chief has difficulty keeping up with all of the
administrative duties and the supervision of the duties that the former
Deputy Fire Chief carried out. He also has responsibilities under the
Emergency Management Act as the Community Emergency Management
Coordinator, is Co-chair of the Health and Safety Committee and the
Corporate Trainer.
It is noted that the corporate organization provides for Deputies of many of the
Senior Managers in the municipality as well as their core responsibilities within
their own area of expertise.
 Deputy CAO and Director of Corporate Services
 Deputy Clerk
 Deputy Chief Building Official
 Deputy Treasurer
The Position of part Time Deputy Fire Chief in the present form is not serving the
corporation or the Fire Department well, particularly as the position is now
vacant. There is a need for Corporate and Firefighter training as well as the
requirement under legislation for inspections and public education.
Realigning the responsibilities within the Fire Department in relation to, Fire
fighter training, fire inspections, fire prevention public education and
administration is clearly needed.
Training is an essential and critical aspect of operation for a Fire Department.
This task has been carried out in the past in many ways including the Fire Chief,
Deputy Fire Chief, The FPO and Training coordinator and the volunteer fire
officers. With the Deputy Fire Chief‟s position being vacant this has placed an
additional burden on the training delivery system.
The future growth of the Fire Department must be considered when determining
the duties and responsibilities of the current full time and volunteer members.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 39
Proposed Organization Chart for
Meaford & District Fire Department
Chief Administrative Officer
Fire Chief
CEMC
Deputy Chief
Training Officer
Fire Prevention &
Public Education Officer
Station 1
Meaford
Squad 1
1 Captain
5 Firefighters
Squad 2
1 Captain
5 Firefighters
Squad 3
1 Captain
5 Firefighters
Squad 4
1 Captain
5 Firefighters
The structure of the Inter Township Fire Department was reviewed and no
changes are recommended in the structure of the ITFD.
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 40
Conclusions
The establishing By-Law of the Fire Department needs to be revisited to include
the new direction of the Fire Department through the Master Fire Plan.
The organization of the Fire Department requires a new organization chart and a
redistribution of the duties and responsibilities of the administration, training, fire
prevention and public education. There is a need to define the roll of a Deputy
Fire Chief who should be given the primary responsibility of the training program
and the training the firefighters.
The FPO should be assigned to carry out the inspection and prevention duties
within the municipality and the Inter Township agreement related to this issue
should be addressed during the renegotiation of the agreement. Further
discussion of this position can be found in the Fire Prevention and Public
Education chapter of this plan.
New Job descriptions are needed for the proposed position of Deputy
Chief/Training Officer and Fire prevention and Public Education Officer.
Recommendations
8. It is recommended that the establishing By-Law for the Fire Department
be revisited and updated.
9. It is recommended that The Deputy Fire Chief position be reclassified to
full time and to include the responsibility for the training program into the
job description.
10.It is recommended that the Administrative Assistant position be evaluated
and documented related to the time required to carry out all of the
responsibilities of the position and reported back at the 2012 budget
process.
11.It is recommended that new job descriptions be developed for the
proposed two new full time positions of Deputy Fire Chief/Training Officer
and the Fire Prevention and Public Education Officer.
12.It is recommended that the proposed Organization Chart be adopted by
Council
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 41
5.0 OPERATIONAL STAFFING – FULL TIME AND VOLUNTEER
The Fire Department is classified as a composite full time/Volunteer department
and is organized as follows:
1
1
1
1
4
20
Fire Chief
Deputy Chief Part Time
Fire Prevention Officer
Captains
Firefighters
**
Full time
Part time
Part Time
Part Time
Volunteer
Volunteer **
Actual numbers fluctuate from year to year the number of Firefighters
quoted above is the approved establishment for the Station.
The recruitment and training of new Volunteer Firefighters is carried out at the
Station level. To serve a community, a volunteer must be dedicated, committed
and prepared to give up considerable personal (home and work) time to attend
all of the training sessions, meetings and respond to emergency calls at all hours
of the day and night.
The community achieves a tremendous financial advantage by having a dedicated
Volunteer Fire Department as does the volunteer who by dedicating his or her
time reduces the financial impact to the municipal budget to deliver fire
protection services.
MEAFORD AND DISTRICT FIRE DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL RESPONSE TOTALS 2000 TO 2009
140
119
120
111
96
Number of Calls
100
102
100
97
77
74
80
60
119
51
40
20
0
1
3
5
7
Master Fire Plan
9
11
PAGE 42
The Municipality of Meaford Fire Department responds to over 100 emergency
calls in the community. The statistical records show the growth of the demand for
services since the year 2000 from 51 calls annually to over 100 a 100% increase.
In 2010 the number of calls recorded was 111, a small reduction but still an
average of one call every three days in the community.
Records indicate that the Meaford Fire Department meets the Ontario Fire
Marshals guidelines for response to emergency Calls.
Standards and Guidelines for Operational Staffing
There are several documents that can be referenced to determine the appropriate
staffing for Fire Departments:
NFPA 1710
Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire
Suppression Operations Emergency Medical Operations and
Special Operations to the Public by Career Fire Departments
NFPA 1720
Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire
Suppression Operations Emergency Medical Operations and
Special Operations to the Public by Volunteer Fire Departments
IAFC
International Association of Fire Chiefs NFPA 1710, A Decision
Guide
IAFF
International Association of Firefighters, Safe Fire Fighting
Staffing, Critical Decisions.
OFM
OFM, Comprehensive Fire Safety Effectiveness Model
OFM, Operational Planning: A Guide to Matching Resource
Deployment and Risk
FUS
Fire Underwriters Survey Guide to Public Fire Protection
* Note: NFPA = National Fire Protection Association
The M&DFD staffing is not a major issue that has arisen during the stakeholder
interviews and meetings with the Volunteer Firefighters groups.
In the following pages extracts of some of the standards and guidelines are
included for information purposes. The NFPA standards and the OFM guidelines
indicate the need for four member crews to be dispatched with the responding
vehicles. Although there are no mandatory requirements for four persons on a
fire crew, this number is arrived at with the operational duties and responsibilities
of the crew, when they arrive on the scene of an emergency, in mind.
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It is common knowledge that each municipality has the responsibility of
determining the level of service for the community; the municipal corporation
carries out this responsibility together with the consideration of the standards,
guidelines and expert advice that may be available to them.
The following are an extracts from NFPA 1710 and NFPA 1720
NFPA 1710 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire
Suppression Operations Emergency Medical Operations and Special
Operations to the Public by Career Fire Departments
Origin and Development of NFPA 1710
The development of this benchmark standard is the result of a considerable
amount of hard work by the Technical Committee members and the organizations
they represent. In the case of this standard, their work is the first organized
approach to defining levels of service, deployment capabilities, and staffing levels
for those “substantially” career Fire Departments.
Research work and empirical studies in North America were used by the
Committee as a basis for developing response times and resource capabilities for
those services being provided, as identified by the Fire Department. Committee
members have collectively well over 1000 years of fire-fighting experience in
small, medium, and metro Fire Departments.
The work done by the Committee provides the user with a template for
developing an implementation plan on the standard. Most importantly, it will
provide the body politic and the citizens a true picture of the risks in their
community, and the Fire Department's capabilities to respond to and manage
those risks.
The following are extracts from Chapter 5 of the standard
5.2.2
Operating Units. Fire Company staffing requirements shall be based
on minimum levels for emergency operations for safety,
effectiveness, and efficiency.
5.2.2.1
Fire companies whose primary functions are to pump and deliver
water and perform basic fire fighting at fires, including search and
rescue, shall be known as engine companies.
5.2.2.1.1
These companies shall be staffed with a minimum of four on-duty
personnel.
5.2.2.2
Fire companies whose primary functions are to perform the variety
of services associated with truck work, such as forcible entry,
ventilation, search and rescue, aerial operations for water delivery
and rescue, utility control, illumination, overhaul, and salvage work,
shall be known as ladder or truck companies.
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5.2.2.3
These companies shall be staffed with a minimum of four on-duty
personnel.
5.2.2.4
Initial Full Alarm Assignment Capability.
5.2.2.4.1
The Fire Department shall have the capability to deploy an initial full
alarm assignment within an 8-minute response time to 90 percent of
the incidents as established in Chapter 4.
5.2.2.4.2
The initial full alarm assignment shall provide for the following:
(1) Establishment of incident command outside of the hazard area
for the overall coordination and direction of the initial full alarm
assignment. A minimum of one individual shall be dedicated to this
task.
(2) Establishment of an uninterrupted water supply of a minimum
1480 L/min (400 gpm) for 30 minutes. Supply line(s) shall be
maintained by an operator who shall ensure uninterrupted water
flow application.
(3) Establishment of an effective water flow application rate of 1110
L/min (300 gpm) from two hand lines, each of which shall have a
minimum of 370 L/min (100 gpm). Attack and backup lines shall be
operated by a minimum of two personnel each to effectively and
safely maintain the line.
(4) Provision of one support person for each attack and backup line
deployed to provide hydrant hook-up and to assist in line lays, utility
control, and forcible entry.
(5) A minimum of one victim search and rescue team shall be part
of the initial full alarm assignment. Each search and rescue team
shall consist of a minimum of two personnel.
(6) A minimum of one ventilation team shall be part of the initial full
alarm assignment. Each ventilation team shall consist of a minimum
of two personnel.
(7) If an aerial device is used in operations, one person shall
function as an aerial operator who shall maintain primary control of
the aerial device at all times.
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NFPA 1720 Standard for the Organization and Deployment of Fire
Suppression Operations Emergency Medical Operations and Special
Operations to the Public by Volunteer Fire Departments
Origin and Development of NFPA 1720
The development of this technical standard is a result of a considerable amount
of hard work by the Technical Committee members and the organizations they
represent. In the case of this standard, their work is the first organized approach
to defining deployment capabilities for those “substantially” Volunteer Fire
Departments.
The uniqueness of the Volunteer fire service, the different services they provide,
and how they deploy and respond are being left to the authority having
jurisdiction (AHJ) to determine.
The work done by the committee will provide the user a template for developing
an implementation plan on the standard. Most importantly, it will provide the
body politic and the citizens a true picture of what the risks are in their
community, and the Fire Department's capabilities to respond to and manage
those risks. This standard is most applicable to the Meaford response
requirements.
Extract of chapter four
This is to demonstrate that the standard recommends four members be present
before initiating any interior attack or rescue at the scene of a fire.
4.2.2.2
Initial attack operations shall be organized to ensure that at least
four members shall be assembled before initiating interior fire
suppression operations at a working structural fire.
4.2.2.3
Initial attack operations shall be organized to ensure that if, upon
arrival at the emergency scene, initial attack personnel find an
imminent life-threatening situation where immediate action could
prevent the loss of life or serious injury, such action shall be
permitted with less than four personnel when conducted in
accordance with NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department
Occupational Safety and Health Program.
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Delivery Systems/Time Considerations:
The following guideline has been followed by the Ontario Fire Service for many
years it was produced by the Ontario Fire Marshal and has since been rescinded
by the OFM designed to provide a guide to Fire Departments single family
residence fire response.
A document now in circulation produced by the Ontario Fire Marshal is a work
book for municipalities to establish the level of staffing for the municipality. The
document titled “Operational Planning: An Official Guide to Matching Resource
Deployment and Risk” is available on the OFM web site in PDF format.
The following extract is taken from the Introduction of the document;
“The overall public fire safety objective of a municipality is to provide an
optimal level of fire protection. A municipality needs to evaluate its
existing fire suppression capabilities to ensure that it is managing all fire
risk levels within its communities, responding to and addressing fires that
occur, and meeting public and council expectations.”
“Based on critical tasks from the incident management system,
Operational Planning: An Official Guide to Matching Resource Deployment
and Risk is a tool for municipal decision-makers to use to analyze their
resource needs for the levels of fire risk in their communities. It is a fivestep process that offers a systematic and logical process of assessment,
planning and implementation, and provides forms to assist with
collecting response data, reviewing incidents, identifying fire
suppression gaps, and developing options and recommendations for
council consideration. This tool, developed by the Office of the Fire
Marshal, will assist municipalities in meeting their responsibilities under
2.(1)(b) of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.”
A previous guideline of the OFM has guided the Ontario Fire Services for the
last 15 years and established an industry practice that is followed by most if
not all of the Ontario Fire Services and stated as follows.
The Fire Department must define, in advance, how both the initial group and
total complement will be assembled and managed according to local conditions,
resources and circumstances.
•
The department must develop operational guidelines necessary to achieve
this objective and train Firefighters in their execution.
•
To provide effective, efficient and safe fire protection services the delivery
system chosen must ensure a virtually simultaneous arrival of a minimum of
four Firefighters.
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•
The OFM recommends, where practical, a minimum of four persons be
dispatched on the initial apparatus.
•
Where it is not practical for four Firefighters to respond as a team on the
initial apparatus, options must be considered which will ensure the four
Firefighters are assembled on the fire ground in a coordinated, rapid and
consistent manner prior to flashover.
•
A total complement of no less than ten Firefighters, including supervisor(s),
and, if possible, a minimum of two vehicles one of which is a triple
combination Pumper, must assemble at the fire ground.
•
Time is crucial. Rescue becomes a virtual impossibility in the room of origin
after flashover occurs. After flashover, the opportunity for successful rescue
from other areas in the structure rapidly diminishes. In addition, there is an
increased fire fighting demand if intervention does not take place prior to
flashover.
Preliminary analysis of existing literature indicates that it may be preferable to
dispatch fewer vehicles with more Firefighters rather than the vice versa. In
addition, although a limited number of key tasks can begin at the site with an
initial crew of as few as three Firefighters, a fire in a single family dwelling
requires the virtually simultaneous assembly of a single crew of at least four
Firefighters and a total fire ground complement reaching a minimum of 10 fire
suppression personnel including supervisor(s).
The total fire ground staffing must be assembled within a time frame that
ensures the safe carrying out of all fire ground operations and where possible,
a minimum of two vehicles at least one of which is a triple combination Pumper
are to be dispatched. For complete list of fire ground activities performed by
the complement including incident command and supervision as required.
Escalating fires in single family dwellings, as well as fires in larger structures
such as industrial or institutional occupancies, high rise, etc. may require
additional resources.
Note: The above information is an extract taken from the OFM comprehensive
fire safety effectiveness model.
Reviewing the standards and guidelines indicates the general trend in the fire
protection industry is towards a minimum response of four person crews with the
appropriate apparatus. This applies to both career and Volunteer Fire
Departments.
For the purpose of determining when a municipality should consider full time
versus Volunteer Fire Departments or a combination of both several factors can
be considered.
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The OFM Comprehensive Fire Model has the following comments on the assembly
of Firefighters on the scene.
Availability of Fire Suppression Staffing
The number of staff assembled on the fire ground, and the time required to
assemble the complete team, will be affected by the availability of personnel.
Staff availability will be affected by a number of factors, including:
•
•
•
•
composition of the Fire Department;
the number of Firefighters on duty at the time of the emergency;
the response of on-duty staff to other concurrent emergencies (eg. another
fire, auto-extrication incident);
firefighter working arrangements; and personal and employment
responsibilities of Volunteers.”
A full time member who is on or near the Station or on a response vehicle
carrying out other duties within the community can respond to an emergency
more rapidly than a volunteer who may be home or in his place of full time
work during the day or night.
The next point is the frequency of calls and the possibilities of simultaneous
calls in the community. In the Municipality of Meaford the statistical analysis
has demonstrated a marked increase in demand for emergency service
In other words; the number of Firefighters available to respond at any time and
the frequency of calls together with the possibility of simultaneous calls must
be considered. When this is considered the limitation factors that volunteers
will some times find them selves in must be taken into consideration. Torn
between full time job duties, family demands and their personal desire to
provide a community emergency service.
Volunteer Fire Departments are often faced with an aging membership that
must be accommodated as the physical demands of firefighting become more
demanding for the older members. Some departments transition into a driver
and pump operators assignment while this may cover off the initial physical
issues the individual members may have, it will not serve as a permanent
solution.
The current demands of the emergency services and the increasing number of
standards, guidelines and governing bodies that are monitoring the health and
safety of Fire Fighters has raised the need for Fire Departments to be proactive
in this area. Fire Departments are more inclined to put in place Health and
Safety Guidelines, practices and procedures that provide protection for the
individual Fire Fighters and team as they go into an emergency incident.
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Often Fire Chiefs find themselves torn between the long service and dedication
of the older members and the need to provide a competent and physically fit
membership for the service level required by nature of the profession and the
Health and Safety standards.
Many Fire Departments are requesting medical clearance from the volunteer‟s
doctors to perform the rigorous tasks of firefighting and to ensure the
volunteer is not putting him or herself and other members of the department at
risk.
Another important aspect of the operations of a Fire Department are found in
the Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG) that are developed to guide the
Firefighters in the various operational procedures and policies of the Fire
Department.
These guidelines have been reviewed by the consultants and found to be
compatible with guidelines found in many other Fire Departments across
Ontario. The guidelines should be revisited and updated as required and as new
or innovative processes or equipment is introduced into the fire services.
Many fire departments establish SOG committees or Task Forces to review and
develop SOG‟s and recommend any changes or new SOG‟s to the Fire Chief.
The Fire Department utilizes a paper based mapping system for finding
emergency locations. The municipality has a GIS mapping system that could be
utilized to develop a map book that could include water supply as well as address
information. This could be computerized if a computer is eventually installed in
the emergency vehicles.
The Fire Departments do not have a Pre-incident Plan program. At present if the
fire safety plans is available it can be used for information at fire emergencies.
In many departments, pre-plans are prepared by fire fighters. Some
municipalities have required the property owner to provide comprehensive preplans as part of their fire safety and emergency plans. Pre-plans including
drawings with fire protection and hazard information have not been prepared for
high life risk facilities, industrial/commercial facilities and high-rises.
Fire safety plans and WHMIS (workplace hazardous materials information
system) information are required to be available to the fire department when
they arrive at an emergency. This is not the case in many locations.
Pre-plans provide the fire ground commander with accurate information that he
can use to decide on the strategy and tactics for an emergency in a facility.
NFPA 1620 “Recommended Practice for Pre-Incident Planning” provides guidance
on the preparation of pre-plans. This standard contains information that could be
utilized in the development of pre-fire plans.
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There are no pre-plans for water supplies in rural areas where static sources may
have to be used. Water supply pre-plans have not been developed for the large
fire risks in the municipality.
As a municipality grows, pre-fire plans cannot be maintained as paper files in
emergency vehicles. A number of Fire Departments have developed computer
based storage systems for their pre-plans utilizing vehicle mounted tough books
laptop computers. The pre-fire plans are loaded into a laptop computer in each
fire truck. The officer can access these plans and can print them out in a printer
in the cab ready for use when they arrive at the emergency.
Truck Mounted Computer for Pre-fire Plans
Examples of Pre-plan Data
In municipalities where a computer based pre-plan program is not achievable, the
property owners are often required to provide the pre-plans, WHMIS information and fire
safety plan information in a locked box at the main entrance to the property. A local bylaw can often used to require that FSP boxes be located in an entrance way or close to
the fire access of buildings that are required to have a FSP for the building.
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Conclusions
There are various standards and guidelines across North America for the delivery
of fire services each municipality is responsible for establishing their own level of
service. In the past the Meaford and District Fire Department have endeavourer
to meet the intent of the Fire Prevention and Protection Act and the Ontario Fire
Marshal‟s guidelines.
Many Fire Departments are requesting medical clearance from the volunteer‟s
doctors to perform the rigorous tasks of firefighting and to ensure the
volunteer is not putting him or herself and other members of the department at
risk. Re assigning a member to a less active roll on the fire ground such as a
Health and Safety observer may be possible depending upon the nature of the
physical limitations of the member.
Assigning members with limited physical capabilities to any operational roll
such as driver, pump operator or entry control accountability can be mentally
and physically stressful and is possibly putting a member and the firefighting
team in danger. Often on the fire ground all of the Firefighters present are
working extremely hard requiring 100% effort to control the incident and in
some cases rescue trapped victims. Physical and mental fitness is essential
during these difficult times.
Standard Operational Guidelines (SOG) or Procedures are living documents that
must change to keep in step with technology and emerging practices. The
Meaford SOG‟s are in need of a review to ensure that they continue to meet the
goals of the services being provided.
The Meaford FD and Inter Township FD do not have pre-fire planning programs.
There are a number of high risk facilities that require pre-plans.
Information regarding water supplies is not available to fire fighters at the fire
scene. There are no water supply preplans for areas that are not served by fire
hydrants.
There is extensive information that could be available to the Fire Department
from pre-fire plans that is not available to responding fire fighters.
It is not be feasible to keep pre-plans or fire safety plans in paper form in binders
in the vehicles. There are electronic means of storing pre-fire plans that may be
more useful to the fire fighting personnel. Also pre-plans and other emergency
information can be stored in locked boxes at the entrance to properties to ensure
that a copy is available to fire fighters when they arrive.
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Recommendations
13 It is recommended that The Fire Departments that service the
Municipality of Meaford endeavour to meet the OFM Guideline
“Operational Planning: An Official Guide to Matching Resources and
Risk”.
14 It is recommended that The Municipality establish a policy requiring
Volunteer Firefighters to provide a medical doctors opinion on the
physical condition of Firefighters over the age of 60 (Mandatory full time
FF retirement age in Ontario) to carry out the physical and mental
responsibilities of firefighting.
15 It is recommended that a Task force be established with equal
representation of two (2) members from the Meaford and District Fire
Department and two (2) members from the Inter Township Fire
Department to review both sets of SOG‟s and make a recommendation
to the two Fire Chiefs for one set of SOG‟s for both Fire Departments.
16
It is recommended that the property owners of target properties and
properties that require Fire Safety Plans be required to incorporate the
information for pre-plans in the Fire Safety Plans. These plans should be
maintained by the property owner and stored in a Fire Department
accessible locked box at the main entrance to each designated property.
17 It is recommended that water supply pre-fire plans be developed for the
urban and rural areas of the municipality.
18 It is recommended that an ultimate goal of developing a Pre-Fire
Planning Program be instituted in Meaford. The pre-fire plans should be
prepared by the fire fighters.
19 It is recommended that a training program be implemented to teach the
fire fighters how to prepare pre-fire plans and how to use them during
an emergency.
20 It is recommended that the ultimate goal should be to have pre-plans
stored electronically using a “Tough Books” laptop in the emergency
vehicles and that printers be provided to print hard copies.
21 It is recommended that the pre-fire plans be prepared using NFPA 1620
“Recommended Practice for Pre-Incident Planning” as guidance.
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6.0 VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
The Fire Departments prepare the specification and are involved in the tendering and
purchasing of vehicles. Maintenance and small repairs are carried out by Fire
Department personnel. The general maintenance and repair of the vehicles is carried
out by a local repair shop. All major repairs are carried out by outside contractors.
Appendix „A‟ contains a listing of the major apparatus in the Meaford and Inter
Township Fire Department fleets.
Meaford Pumper/Tanker 1 is equipped with a foam system utilizing Angus High
Combat A, Class A foam. There is no supply of Class B foam. Class A foam
systems provide a more effective use of water in extinguishing fires and providing
exposure protection to buildings. It is also effective in fighting wildland fires
(brush and field).
Inter Township has Class A foam systems on some of its pumping vehicles. Each
system is from a different manufacturer and has a different method of operation.
As pumping vehicles are replaced, Class A/B foam systems should be considered
as part of the new vehicle specification.
There are a number of universal foams available that can be used for Class A and
Class B fires. These foams allow fire fighting for all types of fires without the
need for different foams, separate foam tanks and the problems that arise from
maintaining an adequate inventory.
Meaford has a formal vehicle replacement program. Inter Township has a vehicle
replacement program that is dependent on available funding. Meaford has started a
reserve fund for vehicle and equipment replacement. Inter Township FD does not
have a formal reserve fund and has created a reserve fund by retaining any operating
surplus in a reserve account.
Volunteer vehicles should have a life expectancy of 20 years in front line service with
the vehicles being retained as reserve or auxiliary units for up to 5 years. In busy
Stations such as a fulltime Station, vehicle replacement should be considered at 10 to
15 years. The Meaford aerial exceeds the 20 year age limit. ITFD Truck 2 and Truck
6 are approaching their replacement dates. When vehicles reach this age it is often
difficult or impossible to source specialty replacement parts. In addition, regardless of
the number of miles on the vehicle, the reliability of the vehicle becomes
questionable. Many fire trucks have limited mileage, but have considerable hours on
the engine. A long term replacement plan should be part of the development of the
capital reserve fund for the Fire Departments.
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The M&DFD has one aerial devices: a 1975 - 23 m (75 ft) aerial. The vehicle is
equipped with a pump. Vehicles equipped with an aerial device and having the ability
to pump water are called Quints. Quints can operate as independent units and do
not require a Pumper to supply the elevated stream on the ladder and are
recommended due to their versatility. Inter Township FD does not have any aerial
devices and relies on mutual aid from Owen Sound FD for aerial coverage.
Both departments each operate a rescue apparatus. These vehicles are designed to
carry specialty equipment for technical and heavy rescues. Hydraulic tools designed
for auto extrication are carried on these vehicles. The majority of rescues will involve
vehicle accidents. Rescues are used for a number of functions. In addition to rescue,
these vehicles are used as utilities to carry extra equipment and for rehab during
extended emergencies. The rescue also carries water rescue equipment for the water
rescue team. Water rescue is limited to shore based rescue.
ITFD has a rescue trailer and ATV and has a high angle rescue team. M&DFD does
not have a high angle rescue team.
Both departments respond to numerous vehicle fires and accidents on the municipal
roads and Highway 26. A major risk to fire fighters in operating at these accidents is
the possibility of being struck by a vehicle during emergency operations. The preconnected hose lines on the Pumpers are midship mounted and often must be pulled
off with vehicles passing the Pumper. Pumpers can be equipped with front mounted
pre-connect hose lines that can be deployed without having to step into the oncoming
traffic.
Fires in areas not served by hydrants require a Tanker shuttle. The narrow rural
roads with no shoulders make coordinating a Tanker shuttle difficult. The Fire
Departments each have two Tankers. Meaford has two Tankers with 7650 L
(1700 gal.) tanks. Inter Township has two Tankers with 7650 L (1700 gal.) and
7200 L (1600 gal.) tanks. Smaller Tankers are faster and more maneuverable,
whereas larger Tankers provide a larger quantity of water on arrival. The
maximum size of Tanker on a single rear axle must be limited to approximately
8200 L (1800 gal.). Tankers with greater water loads require tandem rear axles.
The optimum tank size is approximately 11400 L (2500 gal).
The Meaford Tankers are equipped with rear dump valves that can swivel to
dump on either side of the vehicle. Inter Township FD does not have the ability
to side discharge from their Tankers. Side dump valves add versatility to a
Tanker operation. The Tankers carry porta-tanks to hold dumped water at the
emergency site.
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Tanker with Side and Rear Dump Valves
Side dump valves allow for a faster off loading of the Tanker‟s water and
eliminate the need to back up to the porta-tank. Backing up vehicles at a
crowded emergency scene is a dangerous activity.
The M&DFD Tankers are equipped with pumps that allow them to be used as
Pumpers in areas protected with fire hydrants. In addition it also allows them to
be used as Pumpers if a Pumper is out of service. One of the ITFD Tankers is
equipped with a pump.
The Pumpers are not equipped with a front mounted suction. Front suctions
allow the Fire Department to set up the porta-tanks and draft Pumper in one lane
of the road, leaving the other lane open to Tanker movement. Front mounted
pump suctions also allow easier access to dry hydrants and static water supplies.
Front Suction and Bumper Mounted Pre-connect Hose
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The standardization of the vehicles and the equipment improves emergency
scene efficiency because it allows fire fighters to know where equipment is
located on every apparatus. Standardizing hose, nozzles and equipment on
vehicles will make it easier for fire fighters to operate from different vehicles at
emergencies. In addition, it is easier to maintain an inventory of repair materials
if all vehicles have the same equipment. It is important that the personnel who
will be using the equipment, have some input into the equipment and vehicle
design.
ITFD apparatus is equipped with traffic light pre-emption. M&DFD has only two
units equipped with traffic light pre-emption. This system changes the traffic
signal to green as the fire apparatus proceeds along the road. The system
provides for faster responses and safety at intersections since the apparatus
always has a “green light”. In the rural areas traffic light pre-emption is not
necessary. Traffic light pre-emption is of benefit in the urban areas.
There are Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) standards that apply to the
construction and acceptance of fire apparatus. The National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) standards are also used as the minimum standard for the design
and construction of emergency vehicles and should be used where there is no
comparable Canadian standard. NFPA 1901 “Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus”
and ULC S-515 “Standard on Automobile Fire Fighting Apparatus” are the common
standards used by manufacturers for the specification of fire apparatus. Although
NFPA standards do not apply in Canada, they are often used as guidelines and
referenced in litigation issues that may arise from time to time in Canadian
jurisdictions. The new vehicles have been designed to meet these standards. Both
ULC and NFPA standards should be reference in the specifications for fire apparatus.
NFPA 1911 “In-Service Apparatus Inspection, Maintenance and Testing” is the
standard for maintenance of fire apparatus. The scope of the standard states:
"This standard defines the minimum requirements for establishing a preventive
maintenance program for fire apparatus. These requirements apply to public or
private organizations utilizing fire apparatus. The standard identifies the systems
and items to be inspected, frequency of servicing and maintenance, and
requirements for testing. This standard is not intended to supersede any
instructions, specifications, or practices defined or required by the fire apparatus
manufacturer, component manufacturer, equipment manufacturer, or the
authority having jurisdiction".
The current maintenance programs should be reviewed for compliance with the NFPA
standard.
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In both fire departments, the fire fighters carry out a regular vehicle check program.
Private contractors are contracted to carry out all major repairs, safety checks, pump
maintenance and annual testing. The M&DFD aerial device is tested every year by a
contractor.
Fire fighter line of duty death statistics kept by NFPA show that over 25% of all line of
duty deaths are a result of vehicle accidents. Driver error and vehicle maintenance
are often sited as the causes of the accidents. It is critical that all vehicles be properly
maintained and that they pass a vehicle safety inspection. The current maintenance
programs are serving the Fire Departments‟ needs. There is a need to have reliable
spare vehicles to replace front line vehicles when they are out of service for
maintenance or repair.
SCBA and Fire Fighting Equipment
SCBA, hose, nozzles and small tools are repaired and tested by the fire fighters. The
M&DFD uses MSA SCBA. The M&DFD SCBA were updated to comply with current
NFPA standards.
The Inter Township FD uses Scott SCBA. The Inter Township FD SCBA‟s do not
have universal RIT connections. There is a proposal to replace all of the ITFD
SCBA in the next budget year.
SCBA maintenance is carried out by outside contractors who have been trained
by the manufacturer. All SCBA‟s and cylinders are tracked for maintenance and
testing. The maintenance records for SCBA were not reviewed.
Neither fire department has a SCBA air compressor. Meaford takes their SCBA
bottles to the Town of the Blue Mountain for filling and Inter Township takes their
SCBA bottles to Owen Sound FD. The Town of the Blue Mountain and Owen
Sound are responsible for ensuring that the breathing air is checked and tested in
compliance with CSA standards. The air quality records were not reviewed.
Cascades and fill Stations are not provided on the rescues. When there is a
major incident that requires a large number of SCBA bottles, the bottles must be
shuttled to and from the closest fire department with a fill Station. A fill Station
and cascade on the Rescues would reduce the need for such a shuttle.
The fire fighters carry out annual testing of equipment. Records for small tools,
hose, nozzles and ladders were not reviewed. All hose and ladders should also be
tested in compliance with the applicable NFPA standards.
Meaford FD has one thermal imaging camera (TIC). Inter Township FD has three
thermal imaging cameras. These devices allow fire fighters to see through smoke
using infrared imaging technology. Utilizing a TIC, fire fighters can easily find
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victims who have collapsed in smoke. The technology also allows fire fighters to
see the fire through the smoke, thereby gaining quick access to the seat of the
fire and effecting its extinguishment.
TIC‟s allow the fire fighters to safely find their way through a burning building. It
aids the fire fighters‟ ability to see the heat signatures of holes in floors and
weakened roofs, to ensure that they avoid being trapped in the event of a
structural collapse. TIC‟s enhance fire fighter and public safety.
THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA (TIC)
The value of this piece of equipment has proved to be exceptional during initial fire
attack and overhaul of buildings after the main fire has been extinguished. A TIC is a
useful tool for the Rapid Intervention Team.
Personal protective clothing is sent out for cleaning and testing annually.
The maintenance of vehicles and equipment is documented in paper files and is not
maintained in a consolidated computer spread sheet. There are commercially
available computer programs for tracking vehicle and equipment maintenance.
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Conclusions
The two departments have vehicle and equipment maintenance programs
that are carried out by the fire fighters and outside contractors. Small
tools, SCBA, hose and nozzles are maintained by fire fighters. Annual
testing of pumps and SCBA is carried out by outside contractors. The
current system appears to be working, however there are expenses related
to contracting the equipment and vehicle maintenance work out. It is
important to ensure that all maintenance and repairs are documented.
The two fire departments are completely independent and have separate
vehicle and equipment specifications.
The M&DFD telesqurt is 36 years old and should be replaced.
ITFD has a tanker and a pumper that is nearing 20 years and will soon be
due for replacement.
There are no spare vehicles to replace vehicles that must be removed from
service for maintenance or repair. It is essential that where ever possible
vehicles be designed for multiple functions to account for this eventuality.
SCBA, hose, nozzles and small tools are repaired and tested by the fire
fighters. Small tools, nozzles, and appliances are not standardized.
The two fire departments use different SCBA. There is no reserve fund
established to replace the SCBA when they reach the end of their useful
life.
Neither fire department has a means of filling SCBA bottles. ITFD relies on
Owen Sound FD and M&DFD relies on The Town of the Blue Mountain FD.
Emergency power is not provided for the fire stations. In the event of a
power failure the departments will not be able to operate the fire stations.
Traffic light pre-emption is provided on most intersections. Two of the six
vehicles in the M&DFD fleet have pre-emption emitters. All ITFD apparatus
has pre-emption emitters.
M&DFD has one thermal imaging camera. ITFD has three thermal imaging
cameras. The need for thermal imaging cameras should be considered a
health and safety concern.
Inspection and maintenance files for vehicles and equipment are not stored
in a consolidated electronic file.
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Recommendations
22. It is recommended that the Fire Departments develop a standard
specification for all types of emergency vehicles.
23. It is recommended that all vehicle and equipment specifications meet
NFPA and ULC standards.
24. It is recommended that all vehicles be maintained in compliance with the
standard NFPA 1911.
25. It is recommended that standard specifications be established for all tools
(SCBA, foam, nozzles, hose, etc.).
26. It is recommended that the equipment compliment for each class of fire
truck in the fleet be standardized. Equipment such as SCBA, hose,
nozzles, appliances, tools, etc. should be standardized and specified for
each new vehicle.
27. It is recommended that the M&DFD telesqurt be replaced with a new 23 m
(75 ft.) aerial/quint.
28. It is recommended that a replacement program be developed for the
replacement of ITFD Truck 2 and Truck 6.
29. It is recommended that pumpers should be configured as pumper rescues
to carry hydraulic rescue equipment. The vehicle should be equipped with
a breathing air cascade and fill station, spare SCBA bottle storage, a
generator and lighting system, sufficient compartments for the required
rescue tools. The vehicle should have a minimum 2300 L (500 gal.) tank
and a minimum 5000 lpm (1050 gpm) pump with a front suction and 45
mm (1 ¾ in.) trash line. The vehicle should be equipped with a Class A/B
foam system, pre-piped removable deluge, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) and 65 mm
(2 ½ in.) pre-connects, hose bed, storage compartments, ground ladders
and 10 m (30 ft.) of hard or soft suction.
30. It is recommended that aerial specifications be based upon a 4 door
chassis with a 23 m (75 ft.) ladder, minimum 2300 L. (500 gal.) tank and
a minimum 5000 lpm (1050 gpm) pump with a front suction. The vehicle
should be equipped with a Class A/B foam system, pre-piped ladder
deluge, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) and 65 mm (2 ½ in.) pre-connects, hose bed,
storage compartments, ground ladders and 10 m (30 ft.) of hard or soft
suction.
31. It is recommended that tanker specifications be based upon a
conventional 2 door chassis with a 11300 L (2500 gal.) tank with rear and
side quick dumps. The vehicle should be equipped with a PTO 4000 lpm
(840 gpm) pump, Class A/B foam system, 45 mm (1 ¾ in.) pre-connects,
hose bed, ground ladders, and storage compartments. The vehicle should
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have a porta-tank that has a capacity equal to the tank size. It should
carry a portable pump (minimum size 2300 lpm (500 gpm)) and 10 m (30
ft.) of hard or soft suction for the pump and the portable.
32. It is recommended that all new pumping vehicles be equipped with front
mounted pre-connect hose lines.
33. It is recommended that thermal imaging cameras be provided for every
pumper and rescue.
34. It is recommended that all new traffic lights that are installed should be
equipped with traffic light pre-emption.
35. It is recommended that a program be developed to install traffic light preemption emitters on all M&DFD apparatus.
36. It is recommended that a computer based tracking system be
implemented for the inspection, testing and maintenance of the vehicles
and equipment.
37. It is recommended that a compressor and fill station be provided at the
M&DFD fire station.
38. It is recommended that reserve funds be established and funded annually
for the replacement of vehicles and equipment.
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7.0 COMMUNICATIONS
A review of the communications systems including radio and pagers used in the
Fire Department was carried out during this evaluation and review of the
department.
All emergency calls to 911 are received at the Owen Sound Police 911 Centre.
Once the 911 operator determines the nature of the emergency, they transfer the
call to the appropriate communications centre. M&DFD‟s dispatching is provided
under contract by the Hanover Police Department Dispatch Centre. The centre
has dispatch contracts with other municipalities in Grey County and Bruce
County. The Inter Township Fire Department is dispatched by the Owen Sound
Police Department Dispatch Centre.
When emergency calls are received the dispatcher inputs the address into a
computer aided dispatch (CAD) system. The system automatically selects the
correct fire department and provides address and routing information to the
dispatcher. The systems do not include hazard and water supply information.
The Meaford fire fighter‟s pagers are activated by a radio signal that is sent from
the transmit/receive tower at the water tower on Nelson St. W. The transmitter
has a battery uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system and is connected to the
hospital standby generator. Fire fighters respond to the fire Station and respond
with the fire trucks to the emergency.
Inter Township FD has a two stage dispatch process. The initial dispatch is for
the Station and the assigned drivers. Once this dispatch is completed, a second
dispatch is sent to the fire fighters in the area where the emergency is reported.
The assigned drivers respond to the ITFD Fire Station and drive the vehicles to
the emergency. The area fire fighters respond directly to the address and report
the situation on their portable radio.
The CAD systems are used by the dispatchers to record event information. All
radio transmissions are recorded on a separate recording system. The dispatch
centers maintains emergency response statistical information for M&DFD and
ITFD.
The M&DFD emergency radio frequency is shared with other Grey County Fire
Departments. In the event of multiple emergencies in the region, this single
frequency can become overloaded with radio traffic. At present M&DFD or one of
the other departments will switch to the OFM frequency. The shared frequency
has advantages when the departments respond to mutual aid calls. However it
would be safer if each department had its own frequency. The other emergency
agencies in Grey County have a variety of radio systems and they are not all
interoperable.
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Mobile radios are provided on all M&DFD vehicles.
Portable radios are carried on each vehicle for use
by fire fighters at emergency scenes. Maintenance
of the mobile and portable radio equipment is
carried out by an outside contractor.
The Inter Township FD fire fighter‟s pagers are
activated by a radio signal that is sent from the
transmit/receive tower owned by Union Gas on
Highway 6/10. The transmitter has a battery
uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system. The
transmitter is not equipped with a standby
generator.
Inter Township has a duplex radio system. This
radio system is not shared with any of the other
fire departments in the county. The
transmitter/repeater is located on the Union Gas Tower on Highway 6/10. Truck
5 (Rescue) is equipped with a mobile repeater to boost signals at remote
emergency scenes. ITFD also has radios equipped with the County fire services
radio frequency and the OFM radio frequency.
Mobile radios are provided on all ITFD vehicles. Each fire fighter has a portable
radio that they carry in their personal vehicle. Maintenance of the radio
equipment is carried out by an outside contractor.
There are a number of dispatch centers for the various emergency services in
Meaford. OPP is dispatched from London. Ambulance is dispatched from London.
The fire services are dispatched by Hanover Police (M&DFD) and Owen Sound
Police (ITFD).
Both departments have found that the current dispatch services are economical.
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Conclusions
The current arrangement with the Hanover PD Communications Centre is
serving the basic needs of the M&DFD. There may be opportunity to utilize
more of the features of the CAD system.
The current arrangement with the Owen Sound PD Communications Centre is
serving the basic needs of the ITFD. There may be opportunity to utilize more
of the features of the CAD system.
The ITFD radio system is not backed up with an emergency generator.
ITFD has its own radio frequency separate from the other fire departments in
Grey County.
The two fire departments have areas where there is limited radio coverage
from the existing radio towers. ITFD has a mobile repeater on one of its
vehicles to maintain communications with the main tower.
The assignment of a single frequency to County fire departments is working at
the present time, however as the number of simultaneous calls increases the
single frequency will lead to communications problems for the M&DFD.
A radio coverage survey has not been conducted to determine if additional
radio towers may be required.
There may be opportunities in the future for shared communications with all
of the emergency services in Grey and Bruce Counties.
Recommendations
39. It is recommended that the M&DFD should continue to use the services of
the Hanover Police Department Communications Centre for the
foreseeable future.
40. It is recommended that the ITFD transmitter should be equipped with a
standby emergency generator.
41. It is recommended that the M&DFD should have its own operating
frequency. M&DFD should apply to Industry Canada for a new emergency
radio frequency.
42. It is recommended that a radio coverage survey be conducted and the
appropriate upgrades made to the radio system.
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43. It is recommended that the M&DFD and ITFD should investigate if there is
additional software available on the Police Department Communications
Centre CAD that could be used to improve dispatch information and
statistical analysis.
44. It is recommended that the M&DFD and ITFD should explore possible
opportunities for a regionalized approach to radio and dispatch systems
with the Grey and Bruce Fire Services, Police Services and Ambulance
Service.
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8.0 FIRE STATIONS
The fire Station was evaluated with a view to recommending the viability of the
Stations to the delivery of fire protection services.
Meaford & District Fire Department, No 1 Station, 81 Stewart St, Meaford.
Constructed: 2009
Wood frame
Steel clad exterior walls with steel roof
3 double depth bays
Work/laundry area
Storage area
Offices and meeting room
Male and female washrooms and showers
Fitness area
Museum
No Emergency Power
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INTER TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT 180 12th Street West, Owen Sound, ON
Constructed 1968
Garage addition 2009
Garage
– steel frame construction with steel cladding and steel roof
– 5 double depth bays
– storage areas/work areas
Office
- block walls with wood floors and roof. Asphalt roof covering.
- Office and meeting rooms
- Male and female washrooms
5000 W diesel emergency generator
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When considering the most suitable location of the volunteer fire Stations,
several factors are taken into consideration:
•
the risks to life and property to be protected,
•
the growth of the community and
•
the availability of part time/volunteer staff.
In general it has been found that in mainly rural communities, the simple
approach of a computer-based program is not the ideal method of determining
fire Station locations, as it is based on geographical need. When the availability of
part time/volunteer staff is factored in, often the geographical location is not
suitable, thereby disqualifying the computer-based model.
the following major criteria was used for determining fire Station locations. The
criteria represent concepts and considerations found in several other documents
standards and guidelines. The demand for service in any given zone in the
community is the first consideration to be given for the location of a fire Station
in the zone. The level of services demanded together with the type of emergency
calls received for the zone determines the need for a fire Station.
A fire Station without any staffing is of no value to the delivery of fire protection
in a community. Therefore the second consideration is the availability of
volunteer citizens in the immediate area to staff the Station.
The travel distance to the emergency demand zone is the next criteria; a fire
Station can only be effective if the Station is located in such a place that the
travel distance to emergencies is not excessive. The response times to
emergency calls is often quoted, as the most important aspect in urban response
zones while the availability of volunteers is a
very important consideration in rural
response zones.
The final factor for consideration is the
financial impact to a community; this is a
consideration but not necessarily a “stop
work” issue. With the proper financial
planning and priority setting in a community
fire protection can be given the appropriate
funding in accordance with the communities
ability to pay.
The original Meaford Fire Station is located in
the urban area of Meaford and was built in
1887 at a cost of $2,500. It is situated just
east of Meaford Town Station. The bell tower
was added in 1908. A new Fire Station was
constructed at 81 Stewart Street in Meaford
completed in 2009.
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The new fire Station is located at 81, Stewart Street and central to the business
district of the urban area of the old Town of Meaford. The building contains
accommodations for the theoretical training of the Firefighters.
There is no emergency back up power for the M&DFD Fire Station. In the event
of a power failure the departments will not be able to operate the fire Stations.
Often during major emergency incidents that impact the community in general
Fire Stations are used as the centre of the emergency for emergency personnel
to gather and be distributed around the community. An example of this kind of
use was demonstrated in the case of the ice storm in eastern Ontario.
Paving of the parking lot will be completed in 2011 which will provide parking for
the responding volunteers and can also serve as a practical outside training area
for Pumper operations.
Conclusion:
Station 1 Meaford was constructed in 2009 and is a modern facility with all of the
necessary space to deliver the fire protection program.
We understand from discussions with the Fire Chief of Inter Township that the
station in Owen Sound meets all of their current needs. The station location
requires that the fire trucks travel through downtown Owen Sound when
responding to emergencies in Meaford.
In the event of a power failure the Meaford fire station will be out of service in a
very short time. Power is needed for heating and charging of emergency
equipment and vehicle batteries, in the event of a long term power outage this
could result in some serious consequences.
Recommendations
45. It is recommended that a portable generator capable of maintaining a
power supply to the fire station be purchased and located at M&DFD Fire
Station.
46. It is recommended that M&DFD Fire Station electrical panel/system be
reconfigured to enable the portable Generator to provide full power to the
station in the event of a loss of power
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9.0 TRAINING
The Training Standards adopted by the
Department follow the OFM curriculum
with additional courses taken by some
members of the department.
In contrast to the intent of the Inter
Township Partnership Agreement the
two individual Stations continue to
operate autonomously.
Stakeholders report that training is
inconsistent and no formal training is
given for joint operations within the
Municipality of Meaford. It is
apparent that both Stations do have
training programs while there is no cross Station training in any organized
fashion.
In Ontario a Section 21 Committee exists to provide guidance papers to
management and labour on the intent and provisions outlined in the Occupational
Health and Safety Act.
The committee is supported by:
• The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs.
• The Association of Municipalities of Ontario.
• The Ontario Professional Firefighters Association.
• Firefighters Association of Ontario
• Ministry of Labour
• Ministry of Public safety and Security
• The committee is provided with a secretariat by the Minister of Labour
The Section 21 Committee has produced a guidance manual containing notes and
information that is supported by the Ministry of labour. The purpose of the
guidance manual is to outline recommended equipment, work practices and
procedures applicable to the prevention of injury or illness to workers in the fire
services.
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Section #7 of the Guidance Manual is dedicated to Training.
Guidance note #7-2 (27) Training Requirements states as follows:
"The Employer is responsible to provide information, instruction
and supervision to a worker to protect the health and safety of
the worker. In order to meet the requirements of this section, it
is incumbent upon employers to ensure that firefighters are
trained to safely perform to a defined level of response as
determined by the employer. Safety proficiency is a function of
training, experience, internal review of performance and ongoing
training based on deficiencies identified by internal review."
It is clear from this description that "internal review" plays a major part of the
training requirement. Documenting the review and testing process is also an
essential portion of the whole training obligations under the Act. It is also clear
that training is mandatory for the safety and proficiency of the services being
provided.
The modern day fire service maintains the training records on a suitable software
package and archived accordingly to meet the intent of the Act.
Meaford & District FD had the corporate responsibilities assigned to the Fire
Prevention Officer, this responsibility has been lifted and placed on another staff
member. The Fire Chief or Captains provide the firefighter training.
The Meaford training program should continue to be given the highest priority
given the critical nature of the program in the operations of the Fire Department.
The department does not have a hazardous
materials response team. Most of the fire
fighters have been trained to the
Awareness Level as described in NFPA 472
“Standard for Professional Competence of
Responders to Hazardous Materials
Incidents”. However the department does
not have the equipment to operate at the
Operations or Technicians Level at a
HazMat emergency.
The Department of National Defence (D N
D) Fire Department has Technicians trained
as hazardous materials specialists, however
they are not authorized to respond outside
of the Federal properties. There is an
ongoing training program to maintain the fire fighter‟s qualifications. There are a
number of industrial and agricultural sites that handle hazardous materials.
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The department relies on private contractors for support in a hazardous materials
incident. The City of Toronto operates a Provincial CBRNE (Chemical, Biological,
Radiation, Nuclear, Explosives) team. This team will respond to chemical emergencies
in Meaford under the Provincial Emergency Response Plans.
There are five (5) members of the department who are listed as having completed the
Trainer Facilitator courses. Trainer Facilitators are essential to the delivery of
Firefighter training to the core levels in the Station. The records of training
demonstrate a history of training to the members of the Fire Department.
The training room located at the Fire
Station is an excellent facility for the
theoretical training aspect of the
firefighters. There is considerable
space around the Station for much of
the practical training that
compliments the class room theory.
There is no practical training facility
in Meaford. We understand there
are plans to develop a training
facility in the not to distant future. A
facility that provides for ladder,
pump operation, search and search
and Rescue exercises would be a
valuable asset to the department.
Conclusions
The M&DFD and ITFD could benefit from a dedicated training instructor for the
officer training, recruiting training and the delivery of specialised training
program, including the record keeping and annual testing for progression through
the Firefighter grades a dedicated training instructor would provide the
consistency the training program needs.
The current training standard in use in the M&DFD and ITFD is the Ontario Fire
Marshal's Firefighter curriculum as a basic standard. Many fire departments train
to higher level of the OFM but they all complete the basic curriculum before
introducing more advanced training.
Completing and documenting the test results of the Firefighters as they progress
through the OFM curriculum is accepted as meeting the intent of the Section 21
Committee Guideline for "internal reviews" of the training program.
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NFPA 472 “Standard for Professional Competence of Responders to Hazardous
Materials Incidents” recommends that all firefighters be trained to the operations level.
The M&DFD and ITFD have all of their members trained to the Awareness Level.
There is a lack of training facilities for Firefighters in the municipality a concerted
effort is needed to develop a plan to put in place the much needed facilities. In
order to progress on this issue a needs assessment could identify the space
needs, equipment and specialized props required to deliver the training.
Recommendations
47. It is recommended that a full time Training Instructor be hired with the
minimum qualification of a Master Trainer Facilitator and given the title of
Deputy Chief/Training.
48. It is recommended that a comprehensive and documented testing of
Firefighters upon completion of the lesson plans be undertaken. The test
records must indicate the level of competency achieved by each
Firefighter and the results of any practical tests or exercises.
49. It is recommended that all members of the Fire Department be trained to
NFPA 472 operation level.
50. It is recommended that that a needs assessment study be undertaken to
determine the practical training facility needs of the department. The
study should outline recommendations including the building and site
requirements and the potential location of the facility.
a. It is further recommended that a financial plan be developed to fund
the construction and equipment needs of the training facility.
b. It is further recommended that opportunities to deliver training
instruction at a M&DFD training facility to other emergency services
and industry be investigated.
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10.0 WATER SUPPLIES FOR FIREFIGHTING
Water supply constitutes 30% of the evaluation criteria used by the Fire
Underwriters Survey (FUS) for insurance ratings of municipal fire services. Water
supplies can be provided by water mains and fire hydrants, water courses,
impounded water supplies (ponds and reservoirs), and fire department Tanker
shuttles.
The Ontario Building Code (OBC) is the standard for new building construction.
Article 3.2.5.7. “Water Supply” states “An adequate water supply for fire fighting
shall be provided for every building.” This provision applies to all public
assembly, institutional and large buildings. Where there is not an adequate
water supply from water mains and fire hydrants; the owner must provide an on
site water supply.
The requirements for the provision of an adequate water supply are enforced by
the Building Department. Where the site is not served by water mains, an on site
water supply must be provided. Appendix A of the OBC contains guidance on
what constitutes an adequate water supply. Guidance can also be found in
various NFPA standards and Insurance Industry Guides such as the Fire
Underwriters Survey (FUS) Guide “Water Supply for Public Fire Protection”.
The Fire Departments must rely on various water sources to fight fires in both
rural and urban settings. There are a variety of water sources in the municipality
that are available to the fire departments.
A water system with fire hydrants is provided in the urbanized area of the former
Town of Meaford. This system is fed by the treatment plant on Georgian Bay.
Pressure boost Stations are provided at St. Vincent St.
and Nelson St. An elevated storage tank is provided on
Nelson St. adjacent to the hospital. Fire hydrants are
provided through out the urban area. Some of the
mains are old cast iron pipes and are reaching the end
of their service. There are also a number of old 100
mm (4 in.) water mains that do not deliver adequate
water flow for fire fighting.
Fourteen fire hydrants are provided in the community
of Leith. These hydrants are fed from a water main
that is supplied by the City of Owen Sound.
Fire hydrants are maintained by the Environmental
Services Department. There is a goal to have all hydrants inspected and flushed
annually. In some years this testing may not be completed within the one year
cycle.
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The Environmental Services Department has developed a life cycle program for
the replacement of the older water mains. The water main replacement program
will see all of the older mains replaced over the next 20 years.
The Chief Operator of the Environment Services Department is a volunteer fire
fighter for M&DFD and can advise the Fire Department on water supplies.
The Canadian Forces Base is equipped with a separate water supply system. Fire
hydrants and water mains are provided throughout the central area of the base
to protect the buildings. The maintenance and operation of the water system is
the responsibility of the Canadian Forces.
Fire hydrants and water mains owned and maintained by the City of Owen Sound
are located on Highway 6/10 and Superior St. and provide protection for Meaford
property owners on those streets.
Water flow tests should normally be conducted when any new development takes
place to ensure that an adequate water supply for fire fighting is available. The
minimum fire flow from fire hydrants that is recognized by FUS is 1,000 litres per
minute (lpm) (220 gpm) for a duration of two hours or 2,000 lpm (440 gpm) for
a duration of one hour. The criteria for Tanker shuttles is currently under review.
The FUS Guide Water Supply for Public Fire Protection recommends that water
flow for a typical 200 m2 (2,150 ft2) combustible construction house is 4,667 lpm
(1,027 gpm). When exposure protection is added, this requirement could
increase to 7,000 lpm (1,540 gpm).
The water supply requirements for industrial and commercial structures are
determined by the type of occupancy, building construction, contents and
processes. Large industrial facilities can have water supply demands in excess of
23,000 lpm (5,000 gpm). The old downtown core has a number of combustible
construction structures that have a high fire flow requirement. Each existing
facility should be assessed as part of a Fire Department Pre-Fire Planning
Program. New facilities are required to be assessed in compliance with the OBC.
Subsection 6.6.6. of the Fire Code requires that fire hydrants be colour coded in
compliance with NFPA 291 “Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and
Marking of Hydrants”. All fire hydrants are identified with painted caps for the
available flow with a residual pressure of 140 kPa (20 psi). Almost all fire
hydrants have been colour coded as part of an ongoing hydrant testing program.
The following lists the ratings assigned to fire hydrant based upon a residual
pressure of 140 kPa:
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Colour
o
o
o
o
Blue
Green
Orange
Red
Class
AA
A
B
C
Flow
over 5,700 lpm (1,250 gpm)
3,780 lpm (840 gpm) to 5, 700 lpm (1,250 gpm)
1,920 lpm (420 gpm) to 3,780 lpm (840 gpm)
below 1,920 lpm (420 gpm)
(lpm = litres per minute; gpm = gallons per minute)
The other areas of the municipality that do not have a water main and hydrant
system must rely on static sources or tanked water for fire fighting.
There are a number of ponds, creeks, rivers and
Georgian Bay that can be used for water
sources for fire fighting. Easy fire vehicle
access is not available in many areas. In some
cases it may be necessary to clean an area of
the waterway to allow for a reservoir of water
for fire department use. Dry hydrants can be
used to provide quick drafting access for fire
department vehicles. At present there are no
dry hydrants in Meaford.
Ponds and cisterns can be used for fire
protection. Farms and residential properties are
located in various areas that do not have a
municipal water supply. Storage tanks or
cisterns can be used to provide a water supply
to fight a fire.
Dry Hydrant and Pond
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Properties that can be protected from these static and impounded sources can
receive a reduction in fire insurance rates. Areas with limited static water
supplies could benefit from the installation of reservoirs with dry hydrants. NFPA
1142 “Standard on Water Supplies for Rural and Suburban Fire Fighting”, FUS
Standard Water Supply for Fire Protection and Appendix „A‟ of the OBC can be
used for guidance in designing these types of water supplies. The maximum
travel distance from a structure to a fire water reservoir should not exceed 300 m
(1000 ft.).
Fire Fighting Water Cistern
In those locations where there are no fire hydrants or static water sources, Fire
Department Tanker shuttles must be used. Insurers have recognized Tanker
shuttle programs that can maintain 2,000 lpm (440 gpm) for the duration of one
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hour. This is equivalent to the minimum acceptable flow for a water main and
fire hydrant system. There are a number of areas in the municipality where the
Fire Department could operate a Tanker shuttle to maintain this minimum flow.
Such a Tanker shuttle would require automatic/mutual aid from neighbouring fire
departments to ensure that an adequate number of Tankers responded.
Those properties that are within the maximum distances allowed in a Tanker
shuttle evaluation could receive a reduction in their fire insurance costs. In order
to qualify for this insurance savings a Tanker shuttle evaluation must be
conducted in which the Fire Departments demonstrate that they can achieve the
minimum flows and duration within a specified distance to a reliable water
source. A Tanker shuttle study has been conducted for the area of the
municipality protected by the Inter Township FD. Dwellings within 8 km (5 mi.)
and industrial/commercial properties within 5 km (3 mi.) of the Inter Township
FD Station qualify for the Tanker shuttle premium. A Tanker shuttle study has
not been conducted for the areas of the municipality protected by the M&DFD.
Tanker shuttles present several logistical challengers. The narrow rural roads
with no shoulders make coordinating a Tanker shuttle difficult. The current
configuration of the department‟s Tankers and the number of Tankers affects the
efficiency of Tanker shuttle operations. These issues are discussed in the
Equipment and Apparatus Section.
Tanker shuttles should be preplanned for areas that have a concentration of
structures with no pressurized
water supply. Chapter 14 of the
IFSTA Pumping Apparatus
Driver/Operator Handbook
provides guidance on the
development of Tanker shuttle
pre-plans and operations.
The Fire Department does not
have a Pre-incident Plan program.
Pre-plans should identify the
locations of all fire hydrants and
other water sources that may be
used for fire fighting at a facility.
Typical Tanker Shuttle Response
Failure to provide an adequate supply for fire fighting could lead to civil litigation
if there is a fire and it can be proven that the municipality did not ensure that a
required water supply was provided. There have been claims against a number of
Canadian municipalities for failure to provide an adequate water supply for fire
fighting as required in the Building Code. The best defense in these cases is to
show that due diligence had been exercised in the design, operation and
maintenance of the water system or other water supplies.
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Conclusions
Water supplies are an important component of any fire department response.
The urban area of Meaford, a portion of Leith, a small area south of Owen
Sound and the Canadian Forces Base are protected with pressurized water
main and fire hydrant systems. Dry hydrants are not provided at any static
water sources in the municipality. There are a number of areas that do not
have fire hydrants and must rely on tanker shuttles or impounded water
supplies for fire protection.
There are areas supplied by fire hydrants that may not supply adequate fire
flow for a worst case fire. The Environmental Services Department has a
program in place to replace the existing cast iron water mains and four inch
water mains.
Municipalities have a responsibility under the OBC to ensure that an adequate
water supply for fire fighting is provided for large buildings and new
developments. There are buildings that do not have water supplies in
compliance with the OBC.
There are static and impounded water supplies that could be used for fire
fighting in many parts of the municipality. Dry hydrants could be used to
improve access to fire fighting water in many areas of the municipality.
In those areas with residential developments that do not have water mains
and fire hydrants, buried cisterns or reservoirs could be provided as static
water supplies for fire fighting.
Where adequate impounded water supplies are provided or a recognized
tanker shuttle program is implemented, the property owners should receive
lower insurance rates.
Most fire hydrants are colour coded to identify the available water flow. There
is a regular fire hydrant maintenance program.
Municipalities may have a civil liability if an adequate supply for fire fighting is
not provided for those buildings identified in the Building Code as requiring a
water supply for fire fighting.
Recommendations
51. It is recommended that the current water main replacement program
continue and that all old cast iron mains and 100 mm (4 in.) mains be
replaced as funding permits.
52. It is recommended that water supply pre-plans be prepared for the urban
and rural areas of Meaford and for the large fire risks in Meaford.
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53. It is recommended that a survey of buildings required by the Building
Code to have a water supply adequate for fire fighting be carried out and
those properties that have deficiencies be required to take corrective
measures.
54. It is recommended that a survey be conducted of the municipality to
identify all static and impounded water sources. A program should be
instituted to install dry hydrants at strategic locations to facilitate water
drafting by the fire department.
55. It is recommended that impounded water supplies (ponds, cisterns or
reservoirs) be provided in areas such as residential subdivisions that are
not protected with water mains and fire hydrants.
56. It is recommended that a water supply training program be provided to
the fire fighters including the operation of the municipal water system and
the use of alternate water supplies.
57. It is recommended that a superior tanker shuttle certification for the
areas protected by the Meaford & District FD, be conducted with the Fire
Underwriters Survey.
58. It is recommended that a maintenance program be developed for the
inspection and maintenance of dry hydrants.
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11.0
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
ONTARIO EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARDS FRAME WORK FOR
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS
AIM:
To address increasing public safety risks in Ontario by developing
improved community emergency management programs based
on international best practices. The four core components of
emergency management are: prevention/mitigation,
preparedness, response and recovery.
SCOPE:
Emergency management programs are divided into three levels:
essential, enhanced and comprehensive. Each community must
have, as a minimum, an emergency management program at the
essential level.
A community should then seek to progressively develop its
program until the comprehensive level is reached. A
comprehensive emergency management program is the best way
to protect public safety and create disaster-resilient
communities. A comprehensive community emergency
management program also contributes to the protection of public
health, the environment, property and economic stability.
Because each community has different and distinct hazards and risks, a hazard
identification and risk assessment are completed for the community. Hazards
(what can occur) include natural, technological and human-caused events. The
risk assessment determines how often and how severe the effects could be on
public safety. This is generally understood as probability and consequences
(impact and vulnerability). The results of these steps will indicate both the priorities
and how the emergency management program should be developed for the
community.
The Essential Program must be complied with by all Municipalities in Ontario, The
Enhanced Program and the Comprehensive programs are encouraged to be
implemented by the Provincial Emergency Management Ontario group.
The Municipality of Meaford Emergency Management Program is currently being
carried out by the members of the Meaford & District Fire Department. The Fire
Chief is the Community Emergency Management Coordinator, (CEMC). The
alternate CEMC who acts in the absence of the designated CEMC is the Director of
Planning.
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is located in the Council Chambers.
Exercises have been conducted to activate and train the EOC members and
ensure the EOC can operate under emergency conditions. The alternate location
of the EOC is in Meaford Hall.
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An integral obligation of the Emergency Management Plan is to conduct annual
exercise‟s that should become more complex each year. It is understood that the
exercise program has progressed and a full live field exercise is being planned for
2012.
Conclusions
The Fire Chief and Director of Planning are the designated and alternate CEMC‟s
for the municipality. This most chosen path of many municipalities is to have the
Deputy Fire Chief become the CEMC, as there is no Deputy Fire Chief at this time
it may be an option in the future to make a third alternate. Alternates are
essential for obvious reasons the Fire Chief may be involved as the Incident
Commander and may not be able to carry out the functions of the CEMC.
The alternate location for the EOC is Meaford Hall, but not necessarily the best
option. The risk of a major incident effecting the municipality will no doubt impact
the urban area more so if it is an incident such as a weather related Ice Storm,
Hurricane or Tornado.
The exercise program has progressed into a full field exercise planned for 2012
which is recommended as an excellent method to test all aspects of the
Emergency Response Plan.
Recommendations
59. It is recommended that the proposed full time Deputy Fire Chief be
appointed to act as a third alternate CEMC to the Fire Chief.
60. It is recommended that an alternate EOC location for the Emergency
Management Program be considered away from the downtown area of
Meaford.
61. It is recommended that the emergency planning exercises be elevated to
a full field exercise in 2012.
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12.0
FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC EDUCATION
The Meaford fire prevention officer has responsibility for fire prevention, public
education, fire investigation and corporate training in the east half of Meaford
(former Town of Meaford and the former Township of St. Vincent). The M&DFD
fire prevention officer‟s time is divided between 17 hours for fire prevention and
17 hours for corporate training. The Inter Township FD fire prevention officer is a
part-time employee and is responsible for fire prevention, public education and
fire investigation in the municipality of Georgian Bluffs and the west area of
Meaford (former Township of Sydenham).
The Fire Departments are expected to perform a number of fire prevention
functions.
The duties include:
enforcement of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act and related
regulations
fire inspections
retrofit inspections
fire investigations
complaints
site plan review
acceptance of equivalencies under the Fire Code
special projects
public education
data and records maintenance
The Fire Prevention Officers (FPO) are appointed as an Assistant to the Fire
Marshal under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act.
Section 2. (1) of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act (FPPA) requires that:
2.(1) Every Municipality shall,
(a) establish a program in the municipality which must include public
education with respect to fire safety and certain components of
fire prevention, and
(b) provide such other fire protection services as it determines may
be necessary in accordance with its needs and circumstances.
The provision of fire prevention and public education is mandatory under the FPPA.
The provision of an inspection program is dependant on the needs of the community.
The property owner is responsible for ensuring that the property is in compliance with
the Fire Code, however the Fire Department has authority and responsibility to ensure
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that the owner complies with the Fire Code. The Office of the Fire Marshal
recommends that the minimum fire prevention program consist of:
A recognized smoke alarms and home evacuation program.
Fire inspections on complaint or request.
A public education program.
Completion of a Simplified Risk Assessment to determine the risks in the
community and the level of fire prevention and emergency response
required for the community.
The Fire Departments have completed Simplified Risk Assessments. The assessment
by the Meaford FD covers only the east half of the municipality. The Inter Township
FD assessment covers both Georgian Bluffs and the west half of Meaford. The
Simplified Risk Assessments are independent of each other and there is no single
document that covers the entire municipality.
The Fire Code is a regulation under the FPPA and has a number of retroactive
requirements for various classes of buildings in Ontario. Part 9 “Retrofit” has
established compliance dates that apply to a number of buildings in Meaford.
The following is a summary of Sections of the Fire Code and the building
classifications that are required to comply with the retrofit requirements of the Fire
Code. The properties covered by these regulations were required to be in compliance
in 1996.
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.8
Public Assembly Buildings
Boarding, Lodging and Rooming Houses
Health Care Facilities
Residential Buildings Up To Six Storey
Residential Buildings Over Six Storey
Two Unit Residential Occupancies
The fire departments have a responsibility under these regulations to ensure that the
owners are in compliance and to review and approve certain existing conditions that
are allowed under the regulation with the Chief Fire Official‟s approval.
The Office of the Fire Marshal has recommended periods of inspection for certain
classes of buildings. The recommended frequency is under review. M&DFD and ITFD
are not meeting the recommended inspection periods.
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Building Group
Frequency
Group A
Annual
Group B
Group C
Group D
Group E
Group F
Public Assembly
(Schools, Restaurants, Stations, Arenas)
Institutional
(Nursing & Retirement Homes, Hospitals)
Residential
(Multi-unit Residential/Hotels/Motels)
Business & Personal Service
(Banks, Offices)
Mercantile
(Stores, Malls)
Industrial
(Warehouses, Manufacturing, Processing)
Group A
Group B
Group C
Group
D&E
Group F
Miscellaneous
Annual
Annual
Bi-annual
Bi-annual
Bi-annual
M&DFD Area Building Stock
Public Assembly
(Schools, Restaurants,
28
Stations, Arenas)
Institutional
(Nursing & Retirement
7
Homes, Hospitals)
Residential
Single & Semi-detached
6159
Houses
131
Multi-unit Residential
6
Hotels/Motels
189
Mobile Homes & Trailers
Business & Personal
Service/Mercantile
194
(Banks, Offices, Stores,
Malls)
Industrial
(Warehouses,
45
Manufacturing, Processing)
Farm Buildings
86
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Inter Township FD Area Building Stock
Group A
Public Assembly
(Schools, Restaurants,
14
Stations, Arenas)
Group B
Institutional
(Nursing & Retirement
0
Homes, Hospitals)
Group C
Residential
Single & Semi-detached
n/a
Houses
Multi-unit Residential
Hotels/Motels
Group
Business & Personal
D&E
Service/Mercantile
29
(Banks, Offices, Stores,
Malls)
Group F
Industrial
(Warehouses,
40
Manufacturing, Processing)
Miscellaneous
Farm Buildings
n/a
(n/a - information not available)
The Meaford & District FD FPO position is currently vacant. The FPO requires
specialized training in the Fire Code, Building Code, fire protection system design,
special risk protection and public education. There is a recognized standard of
qualifications published by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs that is often used to
develop the criteria for hiring and training a fire prevention officer. The qualifications
for the Inter Township FD FPO were not reviewed. The common ratio of Fire
Inspector to population is one inspector per 15,000 to 20,000 people.
Every new building adds to the inspection load of the department. Although the
Building Department is no longer involved in a building once it is completed, The
Fire Department will conduct regular inspections of these buildings until they are
demolished. As the municipality continues to grow the inspection load will
increase. Single family dwellings are not normally inspected by an FPO, however
as the number of residents increases, the public education demands increase.
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A review of the demographics of Meaford shows that the municipality has a
higher than average number of senior residents. The area is becoming a
retirement community. This demographic group requires a specialized public
education program.
M&DFD has one full time position assigned to fire prevention and public education that
also has other corporate duties. The ITFD FPO position is part time 16 hours per
week. The Fire Fighters have not been trained to conduct fire inspections. At present
the Fire Fighters do not conduct fire inspections. The fire fighters participate in a
public education and residential smoke alarm awareness program.
The number of inspections that are being conducted do not approach the minimum
recommended by the Office of the Fire Marshal. Complete statistics were not
available for the inspections in the two areas of the municipality. The minimum
number of inspections required to meet the OFM guidelines is:
East Meaford
West Meaford
Total
287 per year
49 per year
336 per year
When included with the public education demands, the combined work load for the
two areas is more than can be carried out by a part time FPO.
The review of plans for new construction is the responsibility of the Building Inspector.
The fire department may request to review plans for large buildings for the life safety
systems. An outside consultant advises the Building Department on the adequacy of
water supplies for new buildings. The Building Code has specific requirements for the
provision of fire protection systems including fire department access and an adequate
water supply for fire fighting. The personnel responsible for fire prevention should be
trained to carryout the plans review and construction inspections for fire safety
systems. At present the Building Department relies on the construction engineer for
certification of the design and installation of the fire protection systems. No tests are
conducted by the municipality of these vital systems.
All fire fighters should have some knowledge of fire prevention since the public will
look to them for advice and it is important that they can identify fire safety
deficiencies when the respond to buildings.
Failure to provide adequate enforcement of the Fire Code and the Building Code has
lead to civil actions against some municipalities in Ontario. The best protection
against these actions is the proper enforcement of the Fire Code by qualified Fire
Prevention Officers.
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Fire Safety Plans are submitted to the Fire Department for review and approval.
Upon completion of the review the Fire Department must return a copy of the
plan to the property owner. The owner is required to keep a copy of the Fire
Safety Plan on site and available for the Fire Department. There are a number of
facilities that require Fire Safety Plans. The Fire Code requires that all plans be
reviewed and revised annually. In addition to Fire Safety Plans the Workplace
Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) regulations of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act require that property owners and persons
who handle hazardous goods provide the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to
the Fire Department.
Many municipalities have enacted bylaws
requiring the property owners to maintain
copies of the Fire Safety Plan and WHMIS
information in a locked box at the
entrance to the building. This ensures
that the plan and hazardous materials
information is available to any crew that
may respond and relieves the department
of the responsibility of bringing the
Fire Safety Plan or hazmat information to
the building. These plans can also be used
as pre-fire plans.
Approval of Fire Safety Plans requires that the fire department evaluate the
ability of the property owner to meet the evacuation objectives set out in the
FSP. The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs recommends that the evacuation
performance be evaluated using the objectives set out in NFPA 101 “Life Safety
Code” and NFPA 101A “Alternative Approaches to Life Safety”..
Section 2 of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act requires that “Every
municipality shall establish a program in the municipality which must include
public education with respect to fire safety and certain components of fire
prevention”.
The Fire Fighters participate in public education through Station tours and public
events. Public education programs in schools in the east portion of Meaford are
provided by the FPO. There is no public education program directed at the west
portion of Meaford. The Meaford FD makes use of the local media with radio and
print news promotions regarding smoke alarms, home escape planning and home
fire safety. Public education is one of the most effective tools in reducing the
incidents of fires and injuries.
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There is no formal in school program such as “Learn Not To Burn” or “Risk
Watch”. The information has been provided to the schools, but is not being
delivered by the teachers and is not included in the school curriculum. These fire
safety programs are normally delivered to primary schools. In order to develop a
culture of safety it is important to start early in teaching these habits. Since
these programs are delivered through the elementary school curriculum, these
programs must be implemented in cooperation with the school boards. Since the
boards are regional, any initiative should be through the Area Zone Fire Chiefs
Association.
Another group who would benefit from a fire safety education program is senior
citizens. Meaford has a growing seniors population. Specialized public education
is required for seniors other than what is provided for the general population.
Seniors and children under 10 years of age have a greater risk of death and
injury due to fire than the rest of the population.
Volunteer Fire Fighters attend public events to promote fire safety. The Fire
Fighters have not received training in public education and have limited resources
for public displays.
The department does not have a fire safety trailer that could be used for public
events. There is a children‟s safety village that is being constructed in Hanover
for general safety education. There should be portable display materials available
for promotions at public events.
The Meaford FD delivers a TAPP-C (The Arson Prevention Program for Children)
program for juvenile fire setters. This is a counseling program for children
involved in fire setting or false alarms.
With a coordinated public education program, the department can develop
positive partnerships with service clubs and community organizations to
financially support the public awareness program capital costs of purchasing
demonstration equipment and training materials.
The department has a set of Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG). These
procedures provide operating rules to ensure that all personnel operate in a
consistent manner. There is a SOG that covers fire prevention activities.
The municipality has a burning bylaw. The regulation of open burning is covered
in Bylaw 34-2007 “Burn Bylaw”. The bylaw establishes set fines for offenses for
non-compliance with the bylaw.
The parking bylaw does not address ticketing on fire routes that are required
under the Building and Fire Codes. The property owner must be charged under
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the Fire Code. There is also no provision to remove vehicles from fire routes
under the parking bylaw. Most municipalities include fire route parking
enforcement in the parking bylaw to ensure that the fire department has
authority to remove vehicles in a emergency and ensure that the vehicle owner is
responsible for any fines or cost that may be incurred because a vehicle has been
illegally parked.
The FPO position is responsible for fire investigations. This function requires
special training in order to be designated as a designation as a fire investigator.
NFPA 921 “Guide to Fire and Explosion Investigations” sets out methods to be
employed in fire investigations. Specialized courses are available through a
number of agencies.
The fire prevention and public education programs are tracked in Keystone data
base, both departments share inspection notes and orders on occupancy. There
is no coordination with the Building Department regarding building information
and compliance issues. There is no shared database on municipal properties.
Conclusion
The M&DFD and the ITFD fire prevention programs are completely independent
and there is a minimum communications and sharing of information and
resources between the two organizations. The frequency of inspections for
both fire departments does not meet the frequency of inspections
recommended by the Office of the Fire Marshal.
The FPO positions for the two fire departments are part time positions one Fire
prevention Officer full time could cover all of the municipality. It is understood
that the CAO‟s of the County are considering options for delivery of the Fire
Prevention program. The sharing of the Meaford Full time Officer with other
municipalities may appear to be financially responsible however, there is
sufficient workload in Meaford to warrant one full time FPO at all times.
At present the position of FPO in the M&DFD is vacant and therefore there is
not sufficient qualified staff to conduct all of the fire inspection and public
education duties. There is a need for a qualified FPO and there is a recognized
standard that can be used to establish the required qualifications of candidates
for the position.
A continued relationship with the Building Department in enforcement of the
Building Code has positive benefits. The Fire Department should have input
into the construction of new large buildings since they will be responsible for
responding to fires and other emergencies in these buildings. The fire
protection systems in new buildings should be tested to ensure that they will
operate as designed.
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The Fire Safety Plans should be evaluated annually. NFPA 101 and NFPA 101A
are valuable tools for establishing objectives for evacuation for Fire Safety
Plans.
Fire Safety Plans, WHMIS information and Pre-Incident Plans may not be
available to all crews who may respond to an emergency in a building. A Fire
Safety Plan/WHMIS box at each property could fulfill this requirement.
The delivery of public education should continue to utilize the volunteer Fire
Fighters. The volunteer Fire Fighters are enthusiastic in providing a public
education program, however they do not have public education training and
they have limited time since they have personal and employment
commitments.
The use of the local media for public education ensures that a wide audience is
reached. The fire department has limited resources to provide displays and
training to the public at public events or at presentations to community groups
and schools.
There is no consolidated record system available to the fire departments for
properties in Meaford.
Parking in fire routes is not addressed in the Parking Bylaw.
Recommendations
60. It is recommended that a job description with minimum qualifications
based upon the Ontario Fire Service Standards for Fire Prevention Officers
be developed for the FPO.
61. It is recommended that the FPO position be filled as a fulltime fire
prevention/public education position and that the position be responsible
for fire prevention/public education in the entire Municipality of Meaford.
62. It is recommended that the FPO provide input to the Building Department
regarding fire protection systems for large buildings and occupancies or
processes regulated by the Fire Code.
63. It is recommended that the Fire Department be involvement in the
Building Permit process for large buildings.
64. It is recommended that the volunteer Fire Fighters continue to participate
in public education events. The volunteer Fire Fighters should receive
training in the delivery of fire safety programs.
65. It is recommended that A Fire Safety Plans Box Bylaw be drafted and
presented to Council.
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66. It is recommended that Fire Safety Plans for health care facilities and
facilities housing persons who have difficulty evacuating, be reviewed
using the objectives set out in NFPA 101 and NFPA 101A. Where facilities
are unable to meet these objectives, Inspection Orders should be issued
to upgrade the facilities to meet these objectives.
67. It is recommended that pre-fire plans be developed for high life risk and
high fire risk facilities in Meaford.
68. It is recommended that a fire safety house trailer or similar resources be
purchase and that opportunities for fund raising be investigated with
public service clubs and community organizations. This could be a
County/Regional initiative.
69. It is recommended that an elementary school delivered fire safety
program such as NFPA „s Risk Watch be implemented with the school
boards. This could be a County/Regional initiative.
70. It is recommended that a Home Fire Safety Program be developed and
delivered by the volunteer fire fighting crews.
71. It is recommended that a consolidated property database be developed
for use by the FPO and other municipal departments.
72. It is recommended that the parking bylaw be amended and presented to
Council. The bylaw should include prohibitions for parking in fire routes
and provide the fire department and other emergency agencies with the
authority to remove vehicles that obstruct emergency access.
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13.0
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
This Master Fire Plan has several financial implications that need to be considered
going forward. All of them will be subject to the annual budgeting process and
the ability of the municipality to finance the various recommendations within this
plan. It is also true that any dollars mentioned at this time are 2011 estimates
cost of living increases will apply on an annual basis.
Currently in the budget 2011
Deputy Fire Chief, part time 21 hours per week.
Fire Prevention officer/corporate Training Officer.
Note:
$33,852.00
$58,852.00
Fire prevention Officer vacant
New position, Administrative Assistant (part time) financed from corporate
training position
Additional annual costs of reclassification of the following positions to full time:
Deputy Fire Chief/Training Officer
Fire Prevention and Public Education Officer
+ 30% benefit costs for both position
$25,000.00
$20,000.00
Note: savings from the Inter Township Fire Prevention program 25% of the
program can off set some of the cost of the new position. Should it be agreed that
the one FPO do all of the Georgian Bay municipality in addition to the Meaford
Municipality an agreement should be negotiated.
Alternate Expenditures should the second station be considered
Construction costs:
Construction costs for a two bay drive through metal frame building insulated and
heated will vary in cost dependant upon location and available utilities for the
site.
Actual building costs are estimated at $350,000.00 for the metal framed building
insulated and heated.
Maintenance
Annual maintenance for the building utilities and consumable products are
estimated based on 2011 budgeted costs of the Meaford station at:
Utilities
Fuel/Oil expenses
Pager phones and Licenses
$10,000.00
$ 4,500.00
$4,500.00
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Vehicle costs:
Pumper/Rescue
Pumper/Tanker
EMS response truck
$350,000.00
$250,000.00
$35,000.00
Special Equipment costs:
FF Personal protection equipment
20 Bunker Suites, helmets, Gloves and boots. @ $2,200 each
10: SCBA @ $5,200 each
Station #2, Staffing costs:
Meaford Station 2011 Salaries budget for the Volunteers/Part time employees.
Account # 01-0555-6002 Salaries and wages part time
$150,000.00
Station 2 Volunteer FF, salaries all volunteer station reporting to the Fire
Department, Fire Chief. First year recruitment anticipated at 50% of staffing
needs.
Volunteer 12 to 15 VFF Salaries
Year one 2012
Insurance costs
On Call
Occurrences
Training
10,000.00
0
0
40,000.00
50,000.00
Year two 2013
Insurance costs
On Call
Occurrences
Training
10,000.00
10,000.00
30,000.00
50,000.00
100,000.00
Current 2011 budgeted expenditures for Inter Township Agreement.
$124,000.00 Annual standby fee
$ 40,535.00 payment for responses to emergency incidents
$ 21,000.00 contribution to the capital budget program
$186,535.00 Total contribution
should the partnership agreement be discontinued 50% of the 25% evaluation of
the assets will be recoverable by the Municipality of Meaford. The evaluation of
the Inter Township Fire Department assets are to be determined by an
independent evaluation.
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APPENDIX A
Meaford and Inter Township Vehicle Inventories
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Meaford Vehicles
Pumper #5
Year: 1996
Chassis: HME
Body Builder: Ferrera
Pump: 1050 gpm (5000 lpm)
Tank: gal. 500 gal. (2250 l.)
Telesqurt #1
Year: 1975
Chassis: Scott
Body Builder: King
75 ft (23 m) Telesqurt/Aerial
Tank 500 gal. (2250 l.)
Class A Foam System
Rescue # 3
Year: 2002
Chassis: Freightliner
Body Builder:
Pump: n/a
Tank: n/a
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Pumper/Tanker
Year: 2007
Body Builder: Dependable
Tank: 1700gal. (7650 l.)
Tanker # 1
Year: 2010
Body Builder: Dependable
Tank: 1700gal. (7650 l.)
Class A Foam System
Rescue 1
Year: 2001
Ford F 150
Parade Truck
Year:
Chevrolet Maple Leaf Pumper
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Inter Township Vehicles
Truck #1
Year: 2009
Body Builder: Rosenbaur
Tank: 1000 gal. (4500 l.)
Truck #2
Year: 1994
Body Builder: C Max
Pump:
Tank: 1700 gal. (7650 l.)
Truck #3
Year: 2009
Chassis: Ford F250
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Truck #4
Year: 2009
Body Builder: Advance
Tank: 1600 gal. (7200 l.)
Truck #5
Year: 1998
Body Builder: E-1
Tank: 200 gal. (900 l.)
Truck #6
Year: 1993
Body Builder: Fort Garry
Tank: 1000 gal. (4500 l.)
R.T.V. #9
Kabota ATV
Skid tank and pump
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Truck #10
Year: 2004
Dodge Durango
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APPENDIX B
Township of Chatsworth Fire Department Fire Equipment
Apparatus & Equipment
Pumper #1
1993 freightliner FL80 – Manufactured by Fort Gary – Winnipeg
Pump capacity = 4000 lpm (840 gpm)
Tank capacity = 4540 L (1000 gal)
100 mm hose = 100m (400’)
65 mm = 400 m (1200’)
38 mm = 400 m (1200’)
Ladders: 1- 28’ ext, 2- 14’ roof, 1 – 10’ attic
S.C.B.A. – 4
Spare cylinders – 6
Generator – 1 5000 watt
Portable lights – 2
Portable foam kit – 1
PPV – 1
Extraction fan – 1
TIC – 1
Assorted irons & pike poles
Pumper/Tanker #2
2001 Freightliner FL80 – Manufactured by E-One
Pump capacity = 4000 lpm (840gpm)
Tank capacity = 6800 L (1500 gal)
100 mm hose = 100m (300’)
65 mm = 400 m (1200’)
38 mm = 200 m (600’)
Ladder – 1 24’ ext
Portable water tanks – 1, 9000 L (2000 gal) 1, 4500 L (1000 gal)
Portable pump – 1
S.C.B.A. - 2
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Rescue #3
2009 GMC C5500 4x4 – Manufactured by Asphodel - Norwood
S.C.B.A. – 8
Spare cylinders – 14
Generator – 1 5000 watt
Air bags- Hi-pres –3
Extrication: 2 hydraulic power units, 1 cutter, 1 40” spreader, 1 combi
tool, 1 30” ram, 1 chain kit
Rescue saw – 1
Chain saw – 1
Reciprocating saw – 2
Wooden cribbing – can do 4 vehicles
O2 & medical kit – 1 each
Small spill kit – 1
RIT kit – 1
Rehab kit - 1
Spreader (manual) – 1
Assorted irons & pike poles
PFD – 2
5000 watt light tower
Rescue/Support #5
2005 Ford F250 4x4
Defibrillator – 1
O2 & medical kit – 1 of each
Portable pumps – 2
PFD – 4
Fire Station
Foam – Class “A” 5 pails
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 103
Foam – AR- AFFF 3 pails
Small spill kit – 1
Rescue toboggan – 1
38mm hose – 150m
65mm hose – 250m
Spare S.C.B.A. cylinders – 8
Spare O2 cylinders – 6
2009 Kubota RTV & trailer (wildland fire & rescue)
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 104
APPENDIX C
All Stations Response maps
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 105
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 106
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 107
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 108
APPENDIX D
IFSTA: SAMPLE OF WATER SHUTTLE PRE-INCIDENT PLAN
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 109
Extract from IFSTA Manual
Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 110
APPENDIX E
Fire Chief S Nickels memo to Mr. Free and Council report dated
February 13, 2009
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 111
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 112
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 113
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 114
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 115
Master Fire Plan
PAGE 116

master fire plan - Municipality of Meaford

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