DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard
BROCK: The Township's Fire Prevention and Public Education Officer, Madison Bath, recently presented a comprehensive report to Council, detailing the fire department's efforts and successes in 2024. The report highlights a remarkable increase in the department’s activities, especially in fire prevention and public education programs.
According to the report, the Fire Prevention and Public Education Division experienced a surge in occurrences, compared to the previous years, with the total annual occurrences rising from 35 in 2023 to 185 in 2024. Ms. Bath attributed this increase to a combination of factors, including: more resident complaints, an uptick in licensing requests, a proactive approach to safety concerns, and follow-up actions after emergency responses.
"The statistics from 2024 speak volumes about the community's engagement and our team's commitment to fire safety," said Ms. Bath during the presentation. "Our fire prevention efforts have reached new heights, and we've worked hard to ensure Brock residents are well-equipped with the knowledge they need to stay safe."
The department’s fire prevention activities included an extensive range of inspections and reviews, covering everything from building permits and fire safety plan assessments to campground and daycare licensing. The statistics also show, Brock Township’s firefighters conducted over 40 inspections in Beaverton alone, with Sunderland and Cannington following closely behind.
While the department’s fire prevention efforts showed a significant increase, public education also flourished in 2024. More than 80 events were organized throughout the year, including lessons at local schools, participation in community events, and charity initiatives. Notably, the Fire Prevention Division reached out to young children through programs like “Firefighter Storytime” at Brock Libraries, teaching fire safety through books and interactive activities.
"Our goal is to create awareness and empower the community, and we’ve seen great results," Ms. Bath remarked. "Whether it's through teaching children about fire safety or engaging with residents at local fairs, we're building stronger connections with our neighbours."
The department also reintroduced the successful “Alarmed for Life” initiative, where firefighters went door to door to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in local homes. In addition, the newly launched Alarm Assistance Program supports residents in maintaining or replacing alarms, to ensure maximum safety. As Ms. Bath explained, these programs are essential for promoting fire safety beyond just education, emphasizing a more hands-on approach to community well-being.
Several new initiatives also emerged in 2024, such as a Fire Safety Reading Program and a co-op student program which are set to expand educational outreach and involvement. "We’re not just focusing on the basics; we’re constantly looking for ways to innovate and make fire safety a part of daily life, for everyone in Brock," Ms. Bath added.
The report concluded with the Fire Chief recommending the update be received for information; acknowledging the ongoing efforts and planning, for future programs, will further elevate fire safety in the community.
Council members praised the Fire Prevention and the Public Education Division’s dedication and effectiveness, commending the increase in both the number of initiatives and their community impact. As the year closed, the fire department’s efforts to safeguard the township clearly made a lasting impression, with 2024 setting a new benchmark for fire safety outreach and education in Brock Township.
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