Fire Department
Welcome to the Perth East Fire Department
The Perth East Fire Department is made up of three stations and a roster of 68 firefighters. The stations are located in Milverton, Sebringville and Shakespeare. The Fire Chief, Fire Prevention Officer and Public Educator operate out of the Municipal Office in Milverton.
The Perth East Fire Department is staffed with a dedicated group of paid on call firefighters from the community. Our firefighters train continuously to handle an extremely wide variety of calls safely, efficiently, and professionally.
We work within our community through:
- Public Education
- Fire Prevention and Proactive fire inspections
- Emergency Response and Fire Suppression
Should you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Fire Administration
P: 519-595-2800 *Dial four (4) for Fire Administration or see extensions below:
For general inquires please e-mail: fireadmin@pertheast.ca
Fire Chief, Bill Hunter: bhunter@pertheast.ca Ext. 226
Fire Prevention Officer, Shalyn Herrett: FPO@pertheast.ca Ext. 227
Administration / Public Education, Jess Jorritsma: jjorritsma@pertheast.ca Ext. 233
Social Media
Fire Chief
Bill Hunter, Fire Chief, oversees the operations and administration of the Perth East Fire Department. As part of the Perth East Management Team, Chief Hunter strives for integrity, teamwork, service, continuous improvement and fiscal responsibility.
Welcome to our on-line home. I hope you will find a great deal of resources and fire safety information within these pages. Our Perth East staff are a dedicated group of men and women here to help you when you need it.
Although we are here to help you in your time of need, you are also responsible to do your part to avoid creating those times of need. Some things that you can take care of are:
- Proper disposal of smoking materials
- Staying in the kitchen while you are cooking
- Discarding damaged electrical cords & appliances
- Using extension cords only on a temporary basis
- Have your heating systems inspected regularly
- Keep your chimneys clean and in good repair
- Keep your outdoor open air burns in control
It is also your responsibility to have properly working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your homes. Even with your best efforts, a fire could still start…and only properly working alarms will give you and your family the necessary early detection to escape safely. We also strongly recommend that you create and practice a home escape plan. Knowing how to escape your home, and where to meet when you do, are all part of your responsibility for your own fire safety.
The Perth East Fire Department was created in October 2000 with the amalgamation of the North and South Easthope Fire Department, the Downie-Ellice Fire Department and the Milverton – Mornington – Ellice Fire Department. The Department is made up of three stations located in Milverton, Sebringville and Shakespeare with a total complement of 68 members. We protect a population of 12,300 residents living in over 715 square kilometers. The Fire Chief, Fire Prevention Officer and Public Educator/Administrative Assistant operate out of the Municipal Office in Milverton.
I am very proud of this department and the men and women who staff it. Thank you for taking the time to visit our online home.
- You can follow my X account here.
- You can e-mail Chief Hunter at bhunter@pertheast.ca or reach him by phone at 519-595-2800 ext. 226
Fire Stations & Apparatus
The Perth East Fire Department has 3 stations – Milverton, Sebringville and Shakespeare. Each station has a fleet of fire vehicles and equipment, a station hall and a well trained roster of volunteer fire fighters led by a Station Chief and a Deputy Station Chief.
Milverton Station
Located at 21 Yost Court in Milverton, the station is home to 1 rescue truck, 1 aerial truck and 2 tanker trucks. The Station Chief is Kevin Reis and the Deputy Station Chief is Mike Carter.
- Aerial 41 is a 2016 Rosenbauer Commander (1500/400/60F/78′ Viper rear-mount)
- Tanker 43 is a 2007 Freightliner M2 / E-One (400/1500)
- Tanker 47 is a 2019 Rosenbauer Commander (840/1800)
- Rescue 48 is a 2014 Ram 5500 / Dependable walk-around
- Chief 40 (Fire Chief) is a 2024 Ram 4×4 pick-up truck
- FPO 50 (Education/Enforcement) is a 2017 Ram 4×4 pick-up truck
Shakespeare Station
Located at 2174 Line 34 in Shakespeare, the station is home to 1 fire engine, 1 rescue truck and 2 tanker trucks. The Station Chief is Greg Ankenmann and the Deputy Station Chief is Steve Marriott.
- Engine 62 is a 2008 Spartan Advantage / Rosenbauer (1050/1000/30F)
- Tanker 63 is a 2011 Freightliner M2 / Rosenbauer (500/1500)
- Tanker 67 is a 2005 Freightliner M2 / Superior (840/1500)
- Rescue 68 is a 2004 Spartan Gladiator Classic MFD / Seagrave / Dependable walk-in
- Heritage / Parade is a 1959 GMC / Marsh Pumper
Sebringville Station
Located at 66 Road 130 in Sebringville, the Sebringville Station services both the Perth East and Perth South areas. The station is home to 1 fire engine, 1 rescue truck and 2 tanker trucks. The Station Chief is Dean Simpson and the Deputy Station Chief is Corey Keller.
- Engine 52 is a 2008 Spartan Advantage / Rosenbauer (1050/1000/30F)
- Tanker 53 is a 2009 Freightliner M2 / Fort Gary (840/1500) (SN#M089)
- Tanker 57 is a 2019 Rosenbauer Commander (840/1800)
- Rescue 58 is a 2023 Ford F-550 4×4 / Rosenbauer
Community Risk Assessment
Ontario Regulation 378/18 came into effect on July 1st, 2019 and required all Ontario municipalities to develop a Community Risk Assessment prior to July 1st, 2024. This CRA has been developed for, and by, the Township of Perth East, to comply with this regulation. Municipalities can use their community risk assessments to inform decisions about the provisions of their fire protection services.
The Fire Protection and Prevention Act (FPPA) requires that municipalities provide fire protection programs that “include public education with respect to fire safety and certain components of fire prevention, and provide such other fire protection services as it determines may be necessary in accordance with its needs and circumstances”. The CRA regulation is now a core component of developing an in-depth analysis of a community’s fire related risks through a comprehensive analysis of nine mandatory profiles.
Those nine mandatory profiles are:
- Geographic Profile
- Building Stock Profile
- Critical Infrastructure Profile
- Demographic Profile
- Public Safety and Response Profile
- Community Services Profile
- Hazard Profile
- Economic Profile
- Past Loss and Event History Profile
Within each of the nine profiles, there are a number of sub-topics examined. These profiles are based on an analysis of several sources of information, including data provided by the Township of Perth East, Perth East Fire Department, Statistics Canada, the Ontario Fire Marshal, and staff research.
Please click HERE to access the Perth East Fire Department Community Risk Assessment.
Year in Review Reports
Open Air Burn / Fire Permit
Open-Air Controlled Burn Permit – this permit is not available online, but can be obtained by calling 519-595-2800. Dial 4 for the Fire Department. You will be asked for the following information:
- Name
- Municipal address
- Time and date(s) of burn
- Type of materials you wish to burn
- Phone number for person supervising the burn
NOTE: Leaving a message with this information does not give you permission to burn. You must obtain approval directly with staff.
If you discover an uncontrolled/unattended open air fire, it is important that you report fires to 9-1-1. However, please ensure that you are certain the fire is out of control and/or not being attended. We receive many false fire calls when a passerby does not verify that there is an actual emergency. These calls are costly to both the Fire Department and our volunteer firefighters who have to leave their employment to respond. ***If there is an out of control fire/emergency please do not delay reporting while attempting to control or extinguish the fire.
Recreational campfires are permitted in Perth East without a permit within the parameters of the Township’s Open Air Burn By-Law.
Enforcement
Fire Prevention is monitoring the burns and is attending properties to verify they meet the bylaw.
Every person who sets a fire in contravention of this by-law or who fails to extinguish a fire once ordered to do so by the Fire Chief shall, in addition to any penalty provided for herein, be liable to the Township for all expenses incurred for the purpose of investigating, controlling and extinguishing any fire set or left to burn including vehicle, manpower and other firefighting costs, and such expenses may be recovered by court action or in a like manner as municipal taxes.
The Fire Chief or his designate is hereby authorized to enter, at all reasonable times and upon any property in the Township, in order to ascertain whether the provisions of this by-law are being obeyed. The Fire Chief or his designate is hereby further empowered to enforce or carry into effect the provisions of this By-law.
The cost for fire crews to attend and extinguish a fire is $570.50 per truck / per hour, until they are back in service, plus any applicable fees incurred under the Provincial Offences Act.
Fireworks Permits
Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate a holiday, however there are legal and safety precautions that MUST be taken before buying, selling or discharging of fireworks.
Sale – Permit Application
The sale of any fireworks within the Township requires a Permit from the Fire Chief.
Please click here for the sale of fireworks application.
The fee is $103.15 and is payable by cheque, cash or debit.
Discharge – permit – high hazard
Any High Hazard fireworks display requires an approved permit from the Municipality. No permit is required for low hazard (consumer) fireworks but you are required to follow the Township By-law (see below).
Please click here for the high hazard fireworks application.
The fee is $103.15 and is payable by cheque, cash or debit.
Discharge – days – permitted – time restrictions
Low hazard fireworks displays are permitted between 8:00 PM and midnight on the designated days of New Years Eve, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Civic Holiday and Labour Day or other such days as approved by the Fire Chief. In the event that weather conditions such as rain, fog, smog or wind, make it impractical and/or unsafe to set off fireworks, the next day preceding or following the designated day shall become the designated day
If you have specific questions about fireworks, including fireworks safety, please contact the Fire Chief at 519-595-2800 ext. 226 or by e-mail at bhunter@pertheast.ca
Fire Safety Plans
We strive to make fire safety planning as easy and seamless as possible. If your building/structure/event requires a fire safety plan, we’re here to help. Please contact us if you have any questions.
Tents
Need a fire safety plan for a tent?
TENT PERMIT – FIRE REQUIREMENTS
These requirements do NOT apply to tents that have an area of 30m2 (323sq feet) or less AND are used for camping, personal or non-commercial uses. You may ALSO require a building permit – Please contact the building department.
We recommend that you review these requirements (with the tent supplier, if applicable) prior to installation/set-up for fire department approval of your event.
Fire Safety Requirements
A Fire Safety Plan- a Fire Safety Plan (FSP) is a document designed to provide fire safety information and direction in the event of a fire emergency. FSP must be approved by the Perth East Fire Department prior to any event.
Simply follow the steps, provide the required information and submit your plan. The Fire Department will review your plan – if approved, you’ll receive a complete PDF fire safety plan. You can save and return to the process at any time and there is a spot to upload your site plan/floorplans and other documents.
You can fill out the online form here:
You can download and print the form here:
Key items that are required to issue a tent permit:
- Number of Fire Extinguishers- Your tent will require one 3A-40BC fire extinguisher per 80 feet (25m) of travel distance in any direction from any point within the tent (perimeter and inner area).
- Emergency Lighting- Emergency lighting is required in tent assemblies with an occupancy load of 60 or more people. Emergency lighting must provide illumination for a minimum of 30 mins. in a power outage.
- Must Have a Minimum of Two Exits- Exits must be clearly identifiable and clear of clutter, (tables, chairs, etc.). Events with an occupancy of 150 people or more require EXIT signage over the exit openings of the tent. Signs must be visible at all times, day or night. Disregard if the tent is NOT equipped with any sidewalls.
- Flame Resistance Rating- The tent and all decorative material fabrics used in conjunction with the tent must be certified to CAN/ULC-S109 “Flame Test of Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films”, or “NFPA 701, Fire Test for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films”.
- Provisions for Firefighting– Access shall be provided to all tents for the purpose of firefighting.
- Clearance to Flammable Materials-The ground area enclosed by a tent, and not less the 3 m area around the tent shall be clear of all flammable or combustible materials or vegetation that will carry fire.
- Clearance to Other Structures– Tents shall not be erected closer then 3m to property line or any other structure(s).
- Address clearly posted– The civic address (911 number) should be prominently visible inside the tent.
Industrial Occupancies
Check out this guideline on fire safety plans for Industrial occupancies, provided by the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management.
Fire Inspections
Buildings maintained in accordance with the provisions of the Fire Code perform well during fire incidents.
While building owners are responsible for carrying out the provisions of the Fire Code, fire services have a public safety interest in ensuring that buildings are maintained in accordance with the Fire Code.
Do I need a fire inspection? Yes, if:
- a complaint is received regarding the fire safety of a property
- a request is made to assist a property owner or occupant to comply with the Fire Code and the involvement of the Chief Fire Official is required to ensure the owner remains in compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.
- the fire department is aware of violations in a particular property
How to book a fire inspection:
The Perth East Fire Department should be called regarding any inspections that need to be performed.
Please do not call 911 to request an inspection.
Call the Perth East Municipal office at 519-595-2800 ext. 227 when requesting an inspection or fire safety information. You can also e-mail fpo@pertheast.ca
Property File Search
Request for a property file search for any outstanding fire orders or violations can be directed to Fire Prevention Officer, Shay Herrett – fpo@www.pertheast.ca
The fee for a property fire file search is $108.30.
While a fire file search will indicate if there has been a previous inspection and/or the results, it is best practice to have an inspection of the property by a Fire Prevention Officer to ensure that the property meets with the Ontario Fire Code. The property owner at the time of any fire inspection is responsible to have compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.
Fire Inspection Fees
- Fire Inspections – 1st Unit – $108.30
- Per additional unit per building – $25.80
- Inspection Orders – Preparation of an inspection order under section 21 of the Fire Protection & Prevention Act – $159.85
Fire Prevention Week
FPW 2024 – October 6 to October 12
Fire Prevention Week is the longest-running public health observance in North America, beginning in 1922 and is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association. It is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Each year a new theme is promoted to address the many different fire risks in our communities. This year the theme is “Smoke Alarms – Make Them Work For You!”
The Perth East Fire Department is excited to announce that we will once again be hosting our Annual Fire Prevention Week Open Houses!
While we do provide Fire and Life Safety Education services throughout the year, Fire Prevention Week gives us the opportunity to bring our residents to us. Not only to learn about how to keep themselves safe from fire, but also to showcase our station and firefighters and all the hard work and dedication it takes to provide our three lines of defense to our communities; public education, prevention and emergency response.
- Milverton- Monday October 7th, 6pm – 8pm
- Shakespeare- Wednesday October 9th, 6pm – 8pm
- Sebringville – Thursday October 14th, 6pm – 8pm
Please have a look at some of our pictures from past FPW events!
REMEMBER: ONLY WORKING SMOKE/CO ALARMS SAVE LIVES! TEST YOURS TODAY!
Our leaders in the community challenge you to test your smoke/CO alarms monthly!
Fire Safety
Everyone has the responsibility to keep their families and homes safe from fire. The best ways to do this are to:
- prevent fires from starting;
- maintain working smoke alarms on every storey of your home and outside all sleeping areas to have as much time to safely escape as possible. Not only do smoke alarms save lives, they are required by law;
- plan and practice a home fire escape plan so everyone in the home knows exactly what to do should the smoke alarms sound in an emergency; and
- consider installing residential sprinklers when building a new home or doing extensive renovations.
Carbon Monoxide
When you inhale carbon monoxide, it reduces your body’s ability to carry oxygen in your blood. The health effects can be very serious.
Exposure to CO may cause:
- headaches
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- flu-like symptoms
- impaired motor functions (like difficulty walking or problems with balance)
- dizziness
- chest pain
- poor vision
- difficulty thinking
- convulsions
- coma
- death
Home Escape Planning
Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning. Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.
Escape Planning Tips
- Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Also, mark the location of each smoke alarm.
- A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Interconnected smoke alarms throughout the home are highly recommended. When one sounds, they all sound.
- When you walk through your plan, check to make sure the escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily.
- Choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbor’s house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
- Go outside to see if your street number is clearly visible from the road. If not, paint it on the curb or install house numbers to ensure that responding emergency personnel can find your home.
- Have everyone memorize the emergency phone number of the fire department. That way any member of the household can call from a neighbor’s home or a cellular phone once safely outside.
- If there are infants, older adults, or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the fire drill and in the event of an emergency. Assign a backup person too, in case the designee is not home during the emergency
- If windows or doors in your home have security bars, make sure that the bars have emergency release devices inside so that they can be opened immediately in an emergency. Emergency release devices won’t compromise your security – but they will increase your chances of safely escaping a home fire.
- Tell guests or visitors to your home about your family’s fire escape plan. When staying overnight at other people’s homes, ask about their escape plan. If they don’t have a plan in place, offer to help them make one. This is especially important when children are permitted to attend “sleepovers” at friends’ homes.
- Be fully prepared for a real fire: when a smoke alarm sounds, get out immediately. Residents of high-rise and apartment buildings may be safer “defending in place.”
- Once you’re out, stay out! Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. If someone is missing, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Firefighters have the skills and equipment to perform rescues.
Kids Fire Safety
When you inhale carbon monoxide, it reduces your body’s ability to carry oxygen in your blood. The health effects can be very serious.
Exposure to CO may cause:
- headaches
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- flu-like symptoms
- impaired motor functions (like difficulty walking or problems with balance)
- dizziness
- chest pain
- poor vision
- difficulty thinking
- convulsions
- coma
- death
Kitchen Fire Safety
What you should know about home cooking safety:
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol/drugs, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.
If you have a cooking fire:
- Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
- Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
- If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
- Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
- For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
Safety considerations for cooking with oil:
- Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.
- Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
- Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.
- Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
- Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water on the fire.
- If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.
Please click on the links below to the NFPA Safety Tip Sheets
Please watch this YouTube video on Kitchen Fire Safety. See what happens and learn how the most common type of kitchen fires start – and how quickly the situation becomes dangerous.
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Portable fire extinguishers have limited applications against small fires. When used properly, an extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until firefighters arrive. Fire extinguishers do not replace the need to call Toronto Fire Services. Always call 9-1-1 first when a fire occurs, no matter how small.
Fire extinguishers are not designed for use on large or spreading fires. Even on small fires, they are effective only under the following conditions:
- The extinguisher must be rated for the type of fire being extinguished.
- The extinguisher must be large enough for the fire at hand.
- The extinguisher must be in good working order, fully charged and within easy reach.
- The operator must be trained in the proper use of the extinguisher.
- The operator must be physically capable of lifting, handling and operating the extinguisher.
Seasonal Fire Safety
GRILLING FIRE SAFETY:
There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. It can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Learn simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.
Getting Started Each Year
- Propane cylinders must be inspected and re-certified every 10 years. Check your propane cylinder for date of manufacture.
- Place your BBQ outside, on level ground, at least one metre (three feet) away from the house and away from wind and combustible materials.
- BBQs should be inspected and cleaned at least once each year, preferably prior to the first use annually.
- Make sure burners are in good condition. Burners that are rusted or damaged should be replaced.
- Check the flexible hose. If you find cracks or damage, replace the hose before using the barbeque.
- Clean the tubes underneath the burner – insects and debris can accumulate inside these tubes.
- If your BBQ connection area has an “o” ring, check it every time you connect the cylinder. Replace missing, deformed, cracked or damaged “o” rings.
Checking for Leaks
- After connecting a propane cylinder, check for leaks using a solution of equal parts soap and water.
- With the appliance turned off, brush the solution over all connections. Open the cylinder valve and bubbles will form when there is a leak.
- If you find a leak, close the cylinder valve and contact a certified gasfitter. After repairs are completed, repeat the leak test until there are no leaks.
Using your BBQ
- When using a match, always light it before turning on the gas to prevent excessive gas build-up. If the barbeque is equipped with an electronic igniter, follow the directions on the control panel.
- Both propane and natural gas flames should be mostly blue with yellow tips. If the flame is mostly yellow, do not use the BBQ. Contact a qualified gasfitter.
- Prevent grease from dripping onto the hoses or cylinder. Grease build-up is a fire hazard.
- Never store extra propane cylinders under or near your barbeque. Excess heat may overpressure the cylinder and cause it to release propane from the cylinder relief valve.
- Make sure children stay away from the barbeque.
- Never use a barbeque indoors; doing so causes a build-up of poisonous carbon monoxide gas.
- After BBQ-ing, make sure the BBQ is turned off and the burner flames are out. Also make sure the gas supply is turned off and the lid is closed.
Check out the NFPA Grilling Safety Tip Sheet
WINTER FIRE SAFETY
Home fires occur more in winter than in any other season. As you stay cozy and warm this winter, be fire smart!
Please click on the links below to read more about winter fire safety:
- Put a Freeze On Winter Fires
- Top Ten Winter Fire Safety Tips
- Fire Safety During Winter Storms
- Generator Safety
HOLIDAY FIRE SAFETY
With each changing season comes a multitude of holidays to celebrate! Each has its own fire and safety risks. Click on the links below to learn more about how to keep you and your family safe during every holiday celebration.
MOTOR HOME, CAMPER, AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
Motor homes, campers, and recreational vehicles are used for living and traveling. Each year, fires in them cause deaths, injuries, and millions of dollars in damages. Fires can start in the kitchen. They can start in the engine area. Sometimes the fires are electrical. With a few simple safety tips you can help prevent these fires from happening.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.
Visit the Office of the Fire Marshall website for more information on Fire Safety at Home.
Check out the NFPA’s Smoke Alarms At Home fact sheet
SMOKE ALARM SAFETY TIPS
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
- Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
- It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined.
- Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
- A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
- People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old. Smoke alarms will either have a manufacturing date or an expiry date on the alarm.
Workplace Fire Safety
These procedures are based on your workplace having a fire alarm system and an approved fire safety plan. Your building may not have an alarm system or a detailed fire safety plan. Your workplace fire evacuation procedures may differ. Make it your business to know the fire safety plan and evacuation procedures in your workplace.
Employees should know:
- the location of two exits closest to their work area
- the location of the nearest fire alarm pull station and how to use it
- the phone number for the West Perth Fire Department (9-1-1)
- your responsibilities in a fire, which are in the fire safety plan
- the fire emergency procedures posted on your floor
Employers are responsible for:
- preparing and implementing the Fire Safety Plan
- informing employees of the Fire Safety Plan
- posting fire emergency procedures on each floor
- conducting regular fire drills with all employees
If you discover a fire:
- Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station on the fire floor
- Leave the area immediately, closing all doors behind you
- Take keys with you
- Go to the nearest exit and leave the building. Close all doors behind you
- If you encounter smoke, consider taking an alternate stairwell/exit. Heat and smoke rise leaving cleaner air near the floor. Crawl low under smoke
- Call the Perth East Fire Department at 9-1-1 regardless of the size of the fire. Never assume this has been done. Give correct address, location of fire and your name.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety
The Perth East and West Perth Fire Departments proudly present The Wake Up Call; a Carbon Monoxide awareness video. This video was made possible with the generous support of the Perth East, West Perth, North Perth, St. Marys and Stratford Fire Departments, City of Stratford, Perth County Mutual Aid Fire Services, Perth East (Milverton, Sebringville, Shakespeare) Firefighters Association, West Perth (Mitchell) Firefighters’ Association, Perth-Huron Insurance Brokers Association and the Kinsmen Club of Mitchell & District. Written & Directed by Zach Patton.
NOTE: The carbon monoxide alarm sound heard in this video was modified in post-production. A Kidde CO alarm will sound four quick beeps, followed by five seconds of silence, and repeats. The Perth East Fire Department recommends that you test your smoke and CO alarms monthly and educate all members of your household as to what each alarm sounds like if activated. We recommend visiting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSfbHfwsIVE to view a video which demonstrates what both smoke and CO alarms sound like.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide (aka “CO”) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, toxic gas that enters the body through the lungs during the normal breathing process. It replaces oxygen in the blood and prevents the flow of oxygen to the heart, brain and other vital organs. CO is a serious danger and one that many people do not understand. It is the #1 cause of unintentional poisoning deaths in North America, killing about 50 people every year in Canada with an average of 11 deaths in Ontario. Check out our Carbon Monoxide FAQ.
What are its sources?
Sources of CO include furnaces, gas water heaters/boilers, wood stoves, and other appliances that run on fuels. If these devices are improperly installed or malfunction, they can release CO into your home.
Other sources of CO include:
- exhaust fumes from vehicles or other gas-powered equipment, like lawnmowers, snow blowers, and power generators, used indoors or in your attached garage
- chimneys that are blocked or dirty
- fuel-burning cooking appliances, like gas stoves, propane, natural gas or charcoal grills
- tobacco smoke
Why should I care about Carbon Monoxide?
When you inhale carbon monoxide, it reduces your body’s ability to carry oxygen in your blood. The health effects can be very serious.
Exposure to CO may cause:
- headaches
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- flu-like symptoms
- impaired motor functions (like difficulty walking or problems with balance)
- dizziness
- chest pain
- poor vision
- difficulty thinking
- convulsions
- coma
- death
Where do I find information on the CO law and where alarms need to be installed?
View the Ministry’s CO Safety to read about Carbon Monoxide, how CO alarms work, when & where alarms should be installed, whose responsibility it is to ensure alarms are installed, and information on the replacement, testing and enforcement of CO alarms.
Farm Fire Safety Program
Welcome to our farm fire safety program page, “Building a Farm Fire Safe Community”. The FFSC program was created to address the growing concern regarding farm-related fires. Barn/shed, agricultural vehicle and other farm-related fires have led to staggering losses. Fires have destroyed buildings, livestock, vehicles, equipment and often cripple the livelihood of farming families. In Ontario alone, OMAFRA reports farm structure losses of $25 million – $60 million each year (this does not include contents such as equipment and livestock).
The FFSC program is founded on education, awareness and farm fire safety planning within the Perth East and West Perth fire areas.
The FFSC program is made possible by our Partners in Farm Fire Safety:
- Tradition Mutual Insurance Company
- Heartland Farm Mutual Inc.
- South Easthope Mutual Insurance Company
- Perth-Huron Insurance Brokers Association
We also appreciate the support of:
- Perth County Farm Safety Association
- Kinsmen Club of Mitchell & District
Farm and Food Care Ontario – Farm Fire Resources
Farm Fire Safety Plan and Biosecurity Measures:
Each farm is unique, which means each farm should have a unique farm fire safety plan. We’ve made it quick & easy for farm owners/operators to qualify for a custom-made fire safety plan for their farm. Simply complete the Self-Assessment Form and send it electronically, (or print and submit it) to the Fire Department. Once we’ve reviewed your completed form, we’ll contact you and schedule a visit to the farm property. From there, we’ll work with you, your family, employees and the property itself to create a farm fire safety plan.
A farm fire safety plan may include:
- In-person assessment
- Fire pre-planning
- Water supply assessment
- Owner/operator/employee training
- Fire drill scenarios
- Livestock evacuation planning
- Fire safety checklist
- Farm fire safety for kids
FFSC Resources for Farmers & Farming Communities
- In Case of Fire signs – two signs per sheet, can be easily printed and posted near phones/exits
- Farm Fire Safety Guide – PDF format guide to farm fire safety, including a section for kids
Media Kit and Photo Galleries
WELCOME! The Perth East Fire Department is committed to working with our local media partners to provide information on the latest in fire safety news/concerns, what initiatives we are taking in public education and prevention as well as updates on major incidents. If you are looking for information these are our three contacts that may be able to help you.
Fire Administration
- P: 519-595-2800 *Dial four (4) for Fire Administration or see extensions below:
- Fire Chief, Bill Hunter: bhunter@pertheast.ca Ext. 226
- Fire Prevention Officer, Shalyn Herrett: FPO@pertheast.ca Ext. 227
- Administration / Public Education, Jess Jorritsma: jjorritsma@pertheast.ca Ext. 233
- You can also visit our Facebook page or YouTube channel
The Perth East Fire Department administration also provides service to the West Perth Fire Department through a shared services agreement. The above contacts are to be used if you are seeking information regarding the Municipality of West Perth.
Both the fire department and our media partners share a goal of maintaining accuracy. We’ve compiled a list of proper terminology for the media to use in releases, articles and news features. Some terms are commonly used during emergency incidents, others are frequently interchanged with improper/inaccurate terms.
Common Proper/Improper Terms:
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms (the term “detector” is different – read more about the difference). When referring to laws or messages with regard to homes, “alarms” should be used. “Detectors” are often found in facilities such as hotels, hospitals, etc.
- Carbon Monoxide is “CO” not “CO2”
- Our fire department/township is “Perth East” not “East Perth”
- Firefighter – not fireman or firemen
Incident Terminology
- Aerial – a fire apparatus with an elevating ladder and pumping capabilities
- Commercial occupancy – store
- Defensive attack – firefighters fight the fire from the outside of the building
- Engine – a fire apparatus that has pumping capabilities
- Extrication – firefighters use their hydraulic tools to create access in order to remove occupants from the vehicle
- Fire apparatus – fire trucks
- Fire Marshal has been notified – we are mandated to contact the Ontario Fire Marshal when certain circumstances exist (value of loss, type of occupancy, etc.)
- FPO – Fire Prevention Officer
- Fully involved – smoke and fire throughout the entire building
- Hydraulic extrication tools – not Jaws of Life
- Industrial occupancy – factory
- Motor Vehicle Collision – not accident
- Multi family dwelling – apartment building
- MVC – Motor Vehicle Collision
- Offensive attack – firefighters enter the structure to extinguish the fire
- Rescue – fire apparatus that primarily transports firefighters & specialized equipment to calls
- Single family dwelling – house with occupants
- Structure fire – this is a building fire and more information will be disclosed as we learn what type of building
- Tanker – fire apparatus that primarily transports large amounts of water to a scene (see Tanker Shuttle)
- Tanker shuttle – fire is located in an area without fire hydrants and we use water hauling tanker trucks to deliver water to the scene
- Under investigation – we are investigating to determine the cause and origin of the fire
- Undetermined – An investigation has concluded without definitively identifying the cause of the fire
- Vulnerable Occupancy – refers to Care Occupancies, Care and Treatment Occupancies, or Retirement Homes
