Team Feature: Innisfil Fire & Rescue Services

The Innisfil Fire & Rescue Services (IFRS) team has been on a roll this year. In just the first three quarters of 2024, IFRS responded to more than 2,000 emergency calls. Among their many achievements, their lifesaving efforts stand out: in the last couple months, the crew performed four heroic saves, reviving patients using defibrillators.

Recently, IFRS took on South Simcoe Police in Canadian Blood Services’ friendly Sirens for Life challenge—an annual blood donation campaign that encourages emergency services personnel to get involved. The competition was extremely close, with South Simcoe Police winning by decimal points. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who donated blood as part of the IFRS team. The challenge is back on starting June 21, 2025!

The department also celebrated two significant grant successes, securing almost $100,000 in funding to upgrade their radio communications and acquire a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV). The UTV will be helpful when responding to grass fires and emergencies in remote areas, enhancing IFRS’ ability to provide quick, effective service. In the background, the IFRS team completed our community risk assessment and is working toward finalizing the Fire Master Plan. The Innisfil Regional Training Centre has been buzzing with activity this year, hosting six training courses already, with three more scheduled before the end of the year.

Fire Prevention Month: Smoke alarms, make them work for you!

October was a busy month for IFRS as they focused on fire prevention initiatives. These efforts included crews visiting thousands of households across Innisfil to check smoke alarms and attending local schools to teach kids important fire safety tips. The team also debuted their new fire safety trailer last month!