Fire: 1)Ramara seeks volunteer firefighters as recruitment drive gets underway; 2) Tiny Fire launches online booking system for free home fire safety audits

1)Ramara seeks volunteer firefighters as recruitment drive gets underway

Courtesy Barrie360.com and News Release

By Staff, October 12, 2026

Ramara Fire and Rescue Services firefighters participate in an auto extrication training exercise. Regular hands-on training helps Volunteer Firefighters build the skills and experience needed to respond safely and effectively to emergencies in the community.

Residents interested in serving their community are being encouraged to consider becoming volunteer firefighters as Ramara Fire and Rescue Services launches its 2026 recruitment campaign.

Prospective applicants are invited to attend a Volunteer Firefighter Open House on Oct. 15 and submit applications before the Oct. 31 deadline.

Mayor Basil Clarke said volunteer firefighters are a vital part of the community’s emergency response network.

“Ramara’s Volunteer Firefighters play an incredibly important role in keeping our community safe,” Clarke said. “They are neighbours helping neighbours, stepping away from their families, jobs and everyday lives when our community needs them most. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back, learn new skills and become part of a dedicated team, I encourage you to consider joining Ramara Fire and Rescue Services.”

Volunteer firefighters respond to emergencies, participate in ongoing training and support public education and fire prevention initiatives throughout the township.

Tony Stong, Ramara’s General Manager of Protective and Emergency Services and Fire Chief, said the department is looking for community-minded residents who are willing to learn and work as part of a team.

“Being a Volunteer Firefighter takes commitment, but it is also an incredibly rewarding way to serve your community,” Stong said. “We are looking for people who are willing to learn, work as part of a team and be there for their neighbours when they need help. You don’t need to arrive with firefighting experience; we provide the training and support to become part of our team.”

Open house set for Atherley station

Residents can learn more about the role at a Volunteer Firefighter Open House on Thursday, Oct. 15, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Ramara Fire Station No. 2, located at 85 Patricia Dr. in Atherley.

The event will give attendees an opportunity to meet firefighters, learn about the responsibilities of the position and find out more about the department’s recruitment and training process.

Application requirements

Applications will be accepted until Oct. 31, 2026. To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Hold a valid Ontario Class G driver’s licence in good standing.
• Be medically fit to serve, as certified by a licensed physician.
• Complete entrance testing, including fitness and aptitude assessments.
• Undergo a Vulnerable Sector Check.

Volunteer firefighters play a key role in protecting the safety and well-being of Ramara residents through emergency response, training and community outreach initiatives.

More information about the recruitment process and online applications can be found at Ramara Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment. Contact Ramara Fire and Rescue Services by email at fire@ramara.ca or by phone at 705-484-5374 ext. 253 for additional details.

2) Tiny Fire launches online booking system for free home fire safety audits

Courtesy Barrie360.com and News Release

By Staff, October 11, 2026

Tiny Fire launches online booking system for free home fire safety audits

from Tiny.ca

Tiny Township’s Fire and Emergency Services is modernizing its free Home Fire Safety Audit program with the launch of a new online portal and booking form designed to make it easier for residents to assess and improve fire safety in their homes and cottages.

The service says the new portal will help educate residents about the program while streamlining the process for booking a home fire safety audit.

The program has been available since 2015 and includes a visit from two firefighters, who test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, identify potential safety hazards and recommend ways to address them. The department also offers smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at cost and, in most cases, can install them free of charge during the visit.

The online portal also gives residents a closer look at the range of safety checks conducted during an audit. In addition to testing alarms, firefighters assess issues such as electrical safety around outlets and water sources, safe entry and exit routes, visibility of 911 address signs from the roadway, and dryer and dryer vent safety.

According to Tiny Fire, emergency crews frequently encounter homes lacking adequate protection because smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are missing, expired, damaged or not functioning properly.

Officials say the audit program gives residents an opportunity to identify and correct those concerns before an emergency occurs.

“We really want our community to know that the Home Fire Safety Audit program is designed to help provide fire safety and prevention education without the fear of residents getting in trouble. Our firefighters are simply there to assist making your home a safer place for you and your family,” said Director of Fire and Emergency Services/Fire Chief, Dave Flewelling.

Residents interested in participating in the Home Fire Safety Audit program can book an appointment through the Township’s fire services website or by calling 705-322-1161.

Why it matters

Fire officials say working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms remain one of the most important tools for preventing injuries and deaths during emergencies. The free audit program is intended to help residents identify risks, improve preparedness and ensure homes are equipped with functioning safety devices.