Fire departments throughout Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke are about to receive over $600,000 from the provincial government to enhance firefighter safety and strengthen cancer prevention measures.
On December 15, the Ontario government revealed that it will allocate a total of $608,853.56 to local municipalities via the Fire Protection Grant. This funding is designed to back projects that focus on preventing cancer among firefighters, improving responses to lithium-ion battery emergencies, and making some infrastructure upgrades.
The province indicated that qualifying projects may include new equipment and personal protective gear aimed at cancer prevention, supplies for tackling lithium-ion battery fires, and minor enhancements like better broadband and internet access.
A number of municipalities in the area will benefit from this program, such as Pembroke ($16,445), Petawawa ($36,223.56), Laurentian Valley ($19,626.05), Whitewater Region ($86,016.09), and Deep River ($16,000). Rural municipalities like Admaston/Bromley ($18,863), Bonnechere Valley ($29,785.17), Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan ($64,557.69), Greater Madawaska ($28,770), Horton ($17,002.75), Killaloe, Haggarty and Richards ($33,000), Madawaska Valley ($34,334), Mc Nab/Braeside ($50,057.47), North Algona Wilberforce ($52,821.07), Renfrew ($19,626.05), South Algonquin ($36,223.56) and Laurentian Hills ($33,479) will also receive funding.
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault emphasized that this funding highlights the important role firefighters play in their communities.
“Our firefighters are on the frontlines of emergency services,” Denault said. “They are protectors, community builders , and in many parts of our riding , dedicated volunteers. Investing in them is part of our plan to keep both our communities and the people who serve them safe.”
Solicitor General Michael Kerzner noted that this year’s Fire Protection Grant has been doubled to tackle increasing safety issues faced by firefighters.
“Firefighters are always there when we need them , running towards danger to protect our homes and our communities,” Kerzner said. “That is why we’re doubling this year’s Fire Protection Grant, giving even more firefighters across the province the tools they need to stay safe and effectively respond to life-threatening emergencies.”
The province mentioned that the 2025 Fire Protection Grant will support all 380 municipal fire services across Ontario , benefiting roughly 33 ,000 firefighters throughout the province.
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