MUTUAL AID: Lending a Helping Hand When Needed

BFES Squad crew assess a strategy at a Penetanguishene Building collapse

In 2023 Barrie Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) responded to 60 calls outside the city limits. When fire departments respond outside their assigned area it is call Mutual Aid. Of the 60 calls BFES responded to 33 were for vehicle collisions (partly due to highway Highway 400 ramp construction) four fires, three technical rescues, and two hazardous material responses, and 18 other incidents which include medical calls, false alarms, and perceived emergencies.

BFES Fire Chief Cory Mainprize stated in a City of Barrie release

“I’m proud of the leadership role our team plays in our community and beyond in terms of mutual aid calls, dispatching emergency calls for over 20 surrounding municipalities, and being available to assist when needed,”

“This showcases the importance of the City’s positive partnerships, as well as our professional capacity to always lend a helping hand.”

BFES on scene for a high angle rescue at Singhampton Caves

BFES assisted with Manpower relief at a truck/structure fire Oro Medonte

From as close as one exit north of the city to all the way out in Singhampton BFES assists with high angle rescues, structural assessments and searches and other specially trained operations. Other calls can include man power, equipment support, or some are part of technical rescue contracts, and service agreement area responses.

Barrie's Communication Centre handles calls for 22 agencies dispatching 35,893 calls in 2023. Having multiple agencies at one site can help streamline communication and coordination with helping municipalities during emergency operations.

BFES and Oro Medonte Fire on scene of a collision

BFES assisting Essa Fire during a structure fire