Mississippi Mills Fire Dept

06/05/2026

🚒 Training Night in Pakenham 🚒

Last night, firefighters from MMFD Station 2 (Pakenham) took part in rural water supply training right here in Pakenham, focusing on the unique challenges of protecting properties outside of hydrant coverage areas.

Crews practiced setting up portable (porta) tanks and shuttling water using tankers, as well as establishing long laneway water supply operations—skills that are critical for many rural properties in our community. These evolutions require coordination, timing, and clear communication to ensure a continuous and reliable water supply during emergencies.

We were pleased to be joined by a tanker crew from the Township of McNab/Braeside Fire Department and Ottawa Fire Services - Service des incendies d'Ottawa – Kinburn Station. Training alongside our mutual aid partners is a valuable opportunity to strengthen coordination and teamwork, so we can work seamlessly together when it matters most.

Thank you to our regional partners for another great evening of training!

06/04/2026

Burn Risk Status Raised to Level 4 – Extreme Risk

Effective June 4, Mississippi Mills Fire Department (MMFD) has raised the burn risk to Level 4 (Extreme Risk – Supervised Campfires Only) due to current dry conditions.

The Ministry of Natural Resources' forest fire danger rating for our region is also elevated.

Under this level, residents are only permitted to have supervised campfires. Have extinguishing agents immediately available.

An active 2026 burn permit is required before any open air burning.

Visit https://mm.burnpermits.com/ to obtain your free permit or call 613-256-2064 option 7. Permit holders must call the burn permit line (613-706-4004) to activate their permit prior to each burn.

Reminder: Brush, drum, and windrow fires not permitted between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. (April 1 – October 31).

For more information, visit the MMFD webpage, call 613-256-2064 option 7, or email [email protected].

06/02/2026

Burn Risk Update – June 2, 2026

The Mississippi Mills Fire Department (MMFD) has raised the burn risk to Level 3 (High Risk) due to dry conditions. The Ministry of Natural Resources' forest fire danger rating for our region is also elevated.

Residents are urged to use extreme caution when burning. Have extinguishing agents readily available.

When open air burning:

- Avoid burning in areas with brown or dead grass
- Do not burn during windy conditions
- Keep a water source nearby
- Never leave a fire unattended

An active 2026 burn permit is required before any open air burning.
Visit Burn Permits - Mississippi Mills to obtain your free permit or call 613-256-2064 option 7. Permit holders must call the burn permit line (613-706-4004) to activate their permit prior to each burn.

Reminder: Brush, drum, and windrow fires not permitted between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. (April 1 – October 31).

For more information, visit the MMFD webpage, call 613-256-2064 option 7, or email [email protected].

06/02/2026

Another busy weekend at the Mississippi Mills Regional Training Centre! 🚒

We were pleased to host two courses running simultaneously — Apparatus Equipped with a Fire Pump (NFPA 1002) and Fire Instructor Level I (NFPA 1041) — with firefighters building both technical and instructional skills.

While our Instructor I candidates were in the classroom working through lesson planning, instructional techniques, and how to effectively deliver training in alignment with NFPA standards, our Pump Operations students were out on the training ground putting theory into action — operating pumps, managing water supply, and completing hands-on evolutions designed to build confidence and competency on the fireground.

Running concurrent courses like this highlights the importance of developing well-rounded firefighters — those who can not only perform the job safely and effectively, but also pass that knowledge on to others.

Thank you to all instructors and participants for a great weekend of training, collaboration, and professional growth. 👏

06/01/2026

🚒 Watch Fireground Skills in Action at the EOFA Games🚒

On Saturday, 20 June 2026, the Mississippi Mills Fire Department is proud to host the 114th Eastern Ontario Firefighters Association Convention in Pakenham. The day begins with the Opening Ceremony and Captains’ Meeting at 8:30 am, with competition starting at 9:00 am. The Games will take place off Margaret Street, behind the Stewart Community Centre, and admission is free for spectators.

The EOFA Games are all about strength, teamwork, speed, coordination, and skill under pressure. Throughout the day, firefighters from across Eastern Ontario will compete in a series of demanding events that reflect the physical challenges, teamwork, and task-based problem-solving required on the fireground.

Here are some of the events you’ll see in action:

🔥 Hose Coupling Events
In the 4 Person Hose Coupling and 8 Person Hose Coupling, teams race to connect hose lengths quickly and correctly under pressure. These events test teamwork, communication, coordination, and speed — all critical skills when every second counts on scene.

🪜 Ladder Climb Events
The 3 Person Ladder Climb and 5 Person Bunker Gear Ladder Climb challenge competitors to move efficiently while carrying out a physically demanding task. The bunker gear version adds an extra layer of difficulty by requiring firefighters to perform while wearing full protective gear, demonstrating strength, endurance, and control.

🏃 Bunker Gear Relay
This event combines speed, stamina, and teamwork, with firefighters moving through a relay while dressed in bunker gear. It’s a crowd favourite that highlights the physical demands firefighters face while operating in full equipment.

💧 Hose Lay and Insert Events
The 5 Person Hose Lay (Wye) and 4 Person Insert feature technical hose work that requires precision and teamwork. These events reflect the kind of coordinated actions firefighters use when deploying hose lines and setting up water operations at emergency scenes.

🚨 Efficiency Events
The 5 Person Efficiency and 8 Person Efficiency events bring together multiple firefighting skills in one fast-paced challenge. These events test how well a crew can work together to complete a sequence of tasks smoothly, safely, and quickly.

🪣 Bucket Brigade
The 8 Person Bucket Brigade is a fast-paced, team-driven event inspired by traditional firefighting methods. Crews work together to fill buckets from a portable water tank (port-a-tank) and pass them person-to-person up a ladder, just as firefighters did in the early days before modern fire apparatus. Success depends on rhythm, coordination, and teamwork—making it both a challenging and highly entertaining event for spectators.

👨‍🚒 Chiefs Race
The Chiefs Race adds a bit of friendly rivalry and fun to the day, giving fire chiefs the chance to join the action and show off their competitive spirit.

Whether you know the sport or are seeing it for the first time, the EOFA Games are a great opportunity to watch firefighters put their training, teamwork, and determination on display. It’s fast-paced, exciting, and a great way to support the departments that serve our communities.

Come out, cheer loud, and be part of a proud local tradition in Pakenham on June 20th.📣

05/29/2026

05/25/2026

The Mississippi Mills Fire Department extends its condolences following the line of duty death of Firefighter Alexandru Uichita of the Bridgetown Volunteer Fire Department, Nova Scotia. Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this difficult time.

Rest easy, Alex.

05/23/2026

This Paramedic Services Week (May 17–23), the Mississippi Mills Fire Department would like to recognize and thank our partners at Lanark County Paramedic Service for the incredible work they do every day.

Paramedics are there for our community during some of life’s most critical moments—providing compassionate care, making rapid decisions, and working seamlessly alongside fire crews to serve and protect our residents.

Whether responding to emergencies, supporting vulnerable residents, or delivering community-based care, their dedication and professionalism make a meaningful difference across Lanark County every day.

We are proud to work alongside you and grateful for your commitment to keeping our community safe.

Thank you, LCPS, for everything you do. 💙🚑🚒

05/22/2026

🚒💦 Putting New Equipment to the Test 💦🚒

Last week, MMFD staff and volunteer firefighters gathered on the Mississippi Mills Regional Training Centre firegrounds for a hands-on equipment demo—getting the chance to try out various HEN nozzles and hose configurations in a live training environment.

From side-by-side testing of different nozzle setups, to seeing performance in action during a live burn (through thermal imaging), it was a great opportunity to explore capabilities, ask questions, and build familiarity with new tools. We’re always up for some hands-on training—especially when it means learning, sharing, and sharpening skills together.

Thank you to Andy Balaj (HEN Nozzles) and Cody Oatway (Tech Forward Fire Solutions) for coming out and making it a great day at the RTC! 👏