No Injuries Sustained From Bolivar Street House Fire
/There were no injuries from a residence fire on Bolivar Street that occurred on Sunday afternoon.
File Photo.
Peterborough Blogs
Enbridge Gas Invests In Selwyn Fire Department to Support Firefighter Training
/An investment from Enbridge Gas Inc. is helping the Selwyn Fire Department to support firefighter training, announced at Selwyn Fire Hall 1 in Bridgenorth on Thursday.
(from left to right) Ron Black, Selwyn Township Deputy Mayor; Sherry Senis, Selwyn Township Mayor; Gord Jopling, Selwyn Fire Department Fire Chief; Jeff Braithwaite, GTA East Supervisor Operations, Enbridge Gas; Mary Coulas, Ennismore Ward Councillor and Brian Henry, Smith Ward Councillor. Since the launch of Safe Community Project Assist in 2012, 369 grants have been provided to Ontario fire departments for additional firefighter training. Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.
The investment helps the Fire Department purchase firefighting training materials through Safe Community Project Assist–a program with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC). It supplements existing training for Ontario volunteer and composite fire departments in the communities where Enbridge Gas operates.
“At Enbridge, safety is at the centre of everything we do and a value we live by,” says Jeff Braithwaite, GTA East Supervisor Operations, Enbridge Gas. “We are committed to providing emergency response training support to Ontario firefighters so they can continually learn, improve, and protect the vibrant and healthy communities they call home.”
This year’s $125,000 investment from Enbridge Gas will be shared by 25 Ontario fire departments, including Selwyn Fire Department. The funds will be used to purchase educational materials to assist in training firefighters in life-saving techniques.
“Fire departments train every single day and that’s why it’s important for them to have access to the right materials to keep their members and the public safe. Safe Community Project Assist helps departments afford some of these training tools and improves the ongoing learning that occurs across Ontario,” says John McBeth, Acting Ontario Fire Marshal and Acting Chair of the FMPFSC.
“We are very grateful to Enbridge Gas and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council for supporting Selwyn Fire Department with these training materials. Proper training has always been very important to our responders, and these men and women strive to advance their knowledge and training to be the best they can be for our community,” said Fire Chief Gord Jopling. “As province-wide mandatory certification rapidly approaches, the need for training materials for our volunteer firefighters is more important than ever.”
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26 Kids Get Holiday Shopping Spree With Peterborough Police Service's 18th Annual CopShop This Thursday
/The holidays are coming a little early for 26 local children as the Peterborough Police Services is hosting its 18th annual CopShop at Lansdowne Place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Twenty-six deserving children will enjoy a limo ride from school and be partnered with a Peterborough Police Officer. The officers will serve as personal shoppers for the kids and each will receive a $200 Gift Card to shop around.
“We are very excited that this program is returning as it’s always been an event our officers look forward to,” says Mike Peckham, Detective Constable, Peterborough Police Service. “This year we have about two dozen officers and civilian members volunteering their time to build positive relationships and spend time with our young people in a fun way.”
“It’s impossible not to be inspired by these incredible kids” says Helen Edwards, Property Manager for Lansdowne Place. “I still remember the very first time we hosted CopShop, it was magical and continues to be our favourite day of the year.”
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Peterborough Fire Services Receive $255,260 In Training Funding From Ontario Government
/Peterborough Fire Services has received $255,260 through the Ontario Government’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) to support a Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program, announced at Fire Station No. 2 on Friday afternoon.
Josh Marshall (left) and Lucas Roy (right) of the Peterborough Fire Services conducting a demo of their rope rappell exercise. Since its launch in 2021, Ontario’s Skills Development Fund has helped connect approximately 600,000 workers train or upskill for careers in the trades in their local communities, including over 92,000 manufacturing workers, over 66,000 construction workers, over 36,000 PSWs and healthcare workers and over 27,000 mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction workers. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
This initiative aims to equip Peterborough Fire Service firefighters with the necessary skills to meet the technical rescue standards outlined in the Provincial Regulation Firefighter Certification.
“This latest round of SDF funding emphasizes the significance of ongoing professional development and demonstrates the government's dedication to investing in its workforce,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “As the challenges encountered by emergency responders change, it is essential that their skills and knowledge adapt as well. The Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program exemplifies the proactive measures being implemented to keep first responders leading in safety and innovation.”
The program includes classroom work and practical exercises such as rappelling and heights training. Several firefighters are currently undergoing training in the six-month program, according to Chris Snetsinger, Peterborough Fire Services Chief.
“Peterborough Fire Services must be ready to respond to complex and challenging situations. This investment in the Fire Services Technical Rescue Certification Training Program ensures our team is equipped with the technical skills and latest training needed to meet provincial certification standards and provide the highest level of service to our community,” he said. “This funding strengthens our ability to protect lives and property and supports the ongoing development of our dedicated firefighters.”
Through the SDF, the government is investing up to $1.4 billion through the SDF’s Training Stream and the Capital Stream, designed to recruit, train and upskill workers and build or upgrade training centres for the skilled trades.
“This funding ensures that our firefighters are equipped with the critical skills needed to meet modern rescue challenges and reinforces the importance of preparing our local firefighters to protect lives. It is a critical component in public safety,” said Jeff Leal, Peterborough Mayor. “I want to thank the Province of Ontario for recognizing the needs of our city and supporting our fire services with this vital initiative through the Skills Development Fund.”
“Community safety is a top priority for all of us, and investments like this in our local fire services are vital to ensuring the well-being of our residents. The $255,260 in funding through the Skills Development Fund will help strengthen Peterborough firefighters’ ability to respond to emergencies and protect lives,” said Community Services co-chairs Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Alex Bierk in a joint statement.
The City is hosting an open house of Fire Station No. 2 this Saturday 10 a.m. to noon.
Visitors are welcome to tour the station, explore the facility’s unique features and meet the firefighters staffing Fire Station No. 2. Sparky the Fire Dog will welcome young residents and share a few safety tips.
Fire Station No. 2 is the City’s first facility designed and built to be a net zero and net carbon building. Constructed with a mass timber structure, a carbon sequestering material, it aims to reduce the City’s carbon footprint.
On-street parking is available where indicated. Visitors are asked to respect posted parking restrictions.
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Peterborough Police Service Opens Request For Proposal for Vehicle Towing Services
/The Peterborough Police Service has opened a Request for Proposal for Vehicle Towing Services.
File Photo.
The RFP is for 24-hour towing services and secure vehicle storage pound facilities for the PPS in the City of Peterborough, the Township of Cavan Monaghan, and the Village of Lakefield from 2025 through 2029.
Request for Proposals forms may be obtained by downloading them or contacting the Peterborough Police Service Traffic Unit by telephone at 705-876-1122, ext. 254, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays.
Sealed Requests for Proposal must be received by noon on Dec. 6 by hand delivery in a sealed envelope labelled ‘Towing Application’ to:
Peterborough Police Service
500 Water Street
Peterborough Attention: Traffic Sergeant or Designate
Submissions will be publicly opened on Dec. 9 at 11:30 a.m. in the Hugh Waddell Boardroom (A meeting link will be provided for virtual attendance upon request).
Mandatory site visits will be arranged between Dec. 10 and Dec. 13. Awards are expected to be made by Dec. 23.
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Peterborough Police Service Introduce Military Veterans Wellness Program For Increased Veteran Support
/The Peterborough Police Service has introduced the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP) in Peterborough, Lakefield and the Township of Cavan-Monaghan, announced on Thursday morning.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.
The program will help the Service enhance its ability to support and connect with military veterans in our community and within our service according to the Peterborough Police. They continue to say that it equips frontline officers with heightened awareness, training and the tools necessary to recognize and understand military veterans’ unique needs.
The MVWP helps veterans access critical social services offered through organizations such as the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL), Veteran Affairs Canada (VAC), and Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS).
After a police referral, these national agencies will contact the veteran within 72 hours. They may provide a case worker, advocate, or peer support to assist veterans in accessing the benefits and resources available.
A 14-year tenured Peterborough Police officer and member of the Canadian Armed Forces will serve as a program ambassador to our frontline officers. Officers and civilians will also complete online training courses to learn about life in the Canadian Armed Forces, the traits and struggles veterans may face as they transition from a life in the military, and interaction and de-escalation techniques. Peterborough Police anticipate this training will be completed in the coming month.
“As Remembrance Day approaches it is fitting that we take a moment to learn more about the supports available to our veterans and how we can help,” said Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Chief. “We know there are approximately 3,000 – 5,000 unhoused veterans across Canada, including some in our city. It is important that we as a service understand the unique circumstances and challenges of veterans who have served and if possible, offer a path to services.”
In addition to launching the program, the Service has created a pin (image below) that will be issued to Peterborough Police Service members who are military veterans, civilian and sworn, serving in the organization. The pin will not only help foster a sense of connection with our community members but also show support to the members of the Service.
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City of Peterborough Celebrates Grand Opening of Fire Station #2
/The City of Peterborough celebrated the grand opening of the new net-zero Fire Station #2 with an open house to welcome the public to the facility located at 100 Marina Blvd. at the former Northcrest Arena location on Thursday afternoon.
Council members past and present with Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger unravelling the hose in lieu of a ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick off the Fire Station’s grand opening. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The building uses passive solar design and renewable energy sources. It is considered the City’s first facility designed and built to be certified as a net-zero carbon and net-zero energy building.
A combination of high-efficiency and intelligent technologies, including automated control systems, ground-source heat pumps, rooftop solar panels and heat-recovery systems, are installed. The building is constructed with a mass timber structure, a carbon-sequestering material and a high-performance exterior envelope. An abundance of natural light, provided through bird-friendly, high-performance windows and doors, reduces electrical light and heat loss.
“Today is a big step forward for Peterborough as we move toward achieving the goals of our Climate Change Action Plan,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This new fire hall will help the City reduce greenhouse gas emissions while delivering a vital service to Peterborough residents.”
Fire Station #2 has incorporated training facilities into the building including training areas for pumper operations and technical rescue disciplines such as rope, confined space and trench.
“The training capabilities within this station will help Peterborough firefighters maintain and enhance their training, ensuring we are ready to respond to all emergencies,” said Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “The location of the fire hall enables us to respond to those calls quickly and strategically.”
The building's net-zero design is expected to save the City an estimated $24,270 per year in operational costs.
The City says it will pursue net-zero carbon and net-zero energy certification through the Canada Green Building Council.
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Missing Havelock Teen Logan Tozer Found Safe After Being Missing For Over Two Weeks
/After being missing since Oct. 13, the long search is over as Havelock teen Logan Tozer has been found Wednesday morning according to the Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
Facebook Photo.
OPP officers found the 18-year-old in an abandoned building in Havelock at roughly 8:45 a.m. on Wednesday morning, according to a media release.
The teen was known to have high-functioning autism. The building where he was found was a regular ‘hideout’ spot and had previously been searched regularly.
Tozer was immediately transported to a nearby hospital as a precaution.
The OPP Central Region Crime Unit is continuing the investigation with assistance from Peterborough County OPP, OPP Emergency Response Team, OPP Canine Unit members and OPP Aviation Services.
Douro-Dummer Fire Services and Enbridge Gas Partners Partner to Reduce Fire and Carbon Monoxide Deaths
/Enbridge Gas Inc. and Douro-Dummer Fire Services (DDFS) have partnered to improve home safety and reduce fire—and carbon monoxide-related deaths to zero, announced at Douro-Dummer Fire Station 2 on Monday afternoon.
(From left to right) Chuck Pedersen, Douro-Dummer Fire Chief; Heather Watson, Douro-Dummer mayor; Derrick Huffman, Douro-Dummer Deputy Chief of Fire Services and Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. Over the past 16 years, the program has provided more than 101,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
According to a press release, Douro-Dummer Fire Services received 114 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Safe Community Project Zero. The project is a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that will provide more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario.
Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 in Safe Community Project Zero this year.
“The best way to reduce potential exposure to carbon monoxide is to properly maintain fuel-burning equipment,” said Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. “These alarms are a critical second line of defense against carbon monoxide poisoning, known as ‘the silent killer.’ We’re proud to support our communities and raise awareness and help Ontarians implement these protection strategies.”
When properly installed and maintained, combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms help provide early warning to safely escape from a house fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that is a by-product of incomplete combustion of many types of common fuels.
“We are excited to receive this kind of support, so we can ensure that people in their homes are protected with these life-saving devices,” said Fire Chief Chuck Pedersen.
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Bridgenorth Man Missing After Being Dropped Off at Transit Station
/The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 71-year-old Bridgenorth man Paul Scott, announced missing on Friday.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.
He was last seen on Tuesday when he was dropped off at the Transit station in Peterborough. He intended to make his way to Oakville and may still be in that area of the GTA. Family and police are concerned for his well-being as he suffers from confusion.
He is described as:
Male
White
Brown hair with a grey moustache
5’9
Very thin
Last seen wearing a dark hoody, jeans, backpack and slippers
