Fire and Rescue Services

For heat safety tips and information about local cooling centres, visit georgina.ca/ExtremeHeat.

Business owners and operators: Learn about your responsibilities under the Fire Code by visiting the Fire Code information for businesses page.

Battery Recycling

Georgina Fire and Rescue Services have partnered with Call2Recycle – Battery Recycling – to provide an opportunity for the community to safely drop off used batteries. They can be dropped off at the Keswick fire station between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Don’t let dead batteries become a hazard. For more information on recycling batteries, visit recycleyourbatteries.ca.

Mission and services provided

The mission of Georgina Fire and Rescue Services is to provide the utmost professional and competent service through its commitment to quality and excellence in the community for residents and visitors.

Georgina Fire and Rescue Services provides a range of services to residents and visitors in the Town of Georgina, including:

fire suppression
medical aid response
motor vehicle accident response
hazardous material response
ice/water rescue response
fire prevention
public education
enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code
investigation of the causes of fires

The services and mandate are outlined in the Establishing and Regulating Bylaw. The department runs as a composite department with three fire stations that provide 24-7 protection to residents.

Fire and safety reminders

Water safety

Hoping to enjoy some of this summer weather by the water? Create a water safety plan for any activities planned near water. Whether you are heading out in a boat, kayak, canoe or paddleboard, or simply swimming, having a plan will help ensure a safe and fun time for the whole family. For more information, visit the water and boat safety page.

Be sure to check the weather before heading out by the water. The weather can change in an instant, especially on Lake Simcoe. Turn on notifications for incoming weather reports and be ready to change plans at a moments notice. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Download the What3Words app before your next adventure. What3Words has divided the world into three metre by three metre squares all with their own unique three words. If you get lost, open the What3Words app and provide the three unique words of your location to the 911 operator. This GPS location can be sent to emergency crews to help us find you faster.

Remember the buddy system. Any plans around or on the water should always be done in pairs. Know your limitations, including physical fitness and medical conditions. Have a safe and fun filled summer around the water.

Garage safety

The garage is beginning to become an extension of the home. Ensure the garage is safe from fire. Always use a licensed electrical contractor to inspect and install additional circuits, outlets and to complete any repairs to any electrical system. Contact the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) for a licensed electrical contract near you.

Store gasoline in tightly capped, labelled and approved containers. The max quantity that can be stored is 30 litres. Refuel equipment such as lawn mowers and snow blowers outside and only when cooled.

Do not store propane gas cylinders in the garage or home. Store them outside and away from your home. Frequently dispose of flammable and combustible materials that are no longer needed or used.

Encourage smokers to smoke outside. Avoid emptying smoking materials directly into the garbage. Soak cigarette butts and ashes with water first and then discard into the garbage can.

Farm safety

People, animals and property are in danger when fire breaks out on the farm. Inspect barns and outbuildings for fire hazards to reduce the risk of tragic loss.

Keep the farm safe from fire. Ensure electrical equipment is labeled for agricultural or commercial use. Check that all wiring is free from damage and do not use extension cords in the barn.

Barns are full of items that can ignite easily, remove the hazard of smoking and make your barn a smoke-free zone. Provide workers and staff with fire extinguisher training. Ensure everyone in the barn knows personal safety is the first priority if a fire breaks out.

Tornados

Tornadoes can travel quickly, leaving a path of destruction in their wake. A tornado can also be fairly small and only touch the ground momentarily. Warning signs that a tornado may form include severe thunderstorms, very dark clouds highlighted with a few green or yellow areas, a rumbling sound and a funnel cloud forming at the base of a dark cloud.

Make sure your family is prepared. Create a personalized 72-hour kit for the entire family. Kits should include practical items such as drinking water, food, cash and a portable radio. However, it should also include items that are unique to your own families’ needs. This could include baby items, medical prescriptions, pet food, etc.

Have practice drills with your family, so you know what to do and are prepared. Pick a safe place in the home for household members to gather during a tornado, preferably a basement. Make sure it is away from external doors, windows and walls.

Always pay attention to weather warnings. Visit Environment Canada for up-to-date warnings.

Extreme heat

Canada may be thought of as the winter capital of the world, but summers can get very hot. A prolonged period of heat can become dangerous for many people. Make sure to know the people who are most at risk, such as the elderly, children and anyone who is sick or in need of extra assistance. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke, can happen to anyone who stays in the heat and sun for too long.

Watch for symptoms of heat illness, such as:

Dizziness or fainting
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Extreme thirst
Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
Changes of behaviour in children

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you are caring for someone who displays:

Signs of heat illness
Unconsciousness
Confusion
Or has stopped sweating

Pet safety

It’s the dog days of summer. Every Friday on X, Georgina Fire will be sharing pet safety tips to help keep your pets and you safe from the risks of fire. Be sure to check out and follow Georgina Fire on X for the latest pet safety tips.

Pets are curious. They may bump into, turn on or knock over cooking equipment. Keep pets away from stoves and countertops.

Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters. Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.

Have working smoke alarms on every level of the home. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

What3Words

What3Words is a free app that helps Georgina Fire and Rescue reach you faster. If you’re lost or need help, find your location's three words and share them with emergency services to ensure they know your exact spot. Before your next adventure, download the app from Google Play or Apple App Store.

Get your location

Burn permits

Applications available online

Online permit applications for Agricultural and Open-air Burn Permits are now available.