Mississauga Firefighting Training Program Receives Provincial Funding

The provincial government is providing a boost to a firefighting training program in Mississauga. Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced today (May 15) that a total of $700,000 will be allocated to four innovative and free training projects aimed at enhancing the skills of 203 professional and volunteer firefighters across the province.

The City of Mississauga will receive $101,099 for the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Fire Ground Survival program. This program, recognized worldwide, equips firefighters with techniques to prevent mayday situations and offers life-saving strategies in case they become lost, trapped, or injured. Mississauga Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi emphasized the program’s focus on self-rescue, rapid intervention, firefighter survival techniques, hazard recognition, effective communication, and situational awareness. The goal is to improve survivability, minimize injuries, and reduce the risk of harm to firefighters.

In addition to Mississauga, funding will also be directed to the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association and the Town of Georgina. The Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association will receive $367,105 for the Fire Ground Survival Program and $65,995 for the Peer Support Program, which aims to raise awareness about suicide and provide crisis intervention support. The Town of Georgina will receive $176,000 for the Professional Development Georgina Fire and Rescue Services project.

Premier Ford acknowledged the demanding nature of firefighting as one of the most stressful careers in Ontario. He expressed gratitude for the bravery and dedication of firefighters who fearlessly protect communities. Ford emphasized that the new investments would ensure that firefighters have the necessary training and resources to carry out their jobs safely and effectively.