Honour guards network and learn in Niagara Falls

April 22, 2016 – Camaraderie, brotherhood and the passing on of knowledge were themes discussed at the second annual Honour Guard Convention held in Niagara Falls, Ont., in February. Close to 60 firefighters from 14 departments took part in the convention – more than double the number of participants in the inaugural year. Organizer Jan-Michael […]

Federal government announces $80 million for IAFF LODD benefit

The IAFF welcomes the federal government’s announcement of $80 million for a national Community Heroes Benefit for the families of Canada’s fallen fire fighters and other public safety officers. Ottawa’s Mar. 22 announcement, is the culmination of a longstanding IAFF lobby for a public safety officer compensation (PSOC) benefit.The IAFF commends Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, […]

Task Force Tips acquires AMKUS Rescue Systems

March 7, 2016 – Nozzle maker Task Force Tips, Inc., (TFT) has acquired AMKUS Rescue Systems, both companies announced on their websites last week. Indiana-based TFT manufactures nozzles, monitors, valves and foam systems. Headquartered in Illinois, AMKUS’s line of rescue products includes cutters, spreaders, push-pull rams, power units, auxiliary pumps and rope-rescue systems. AMKUS, according […]

Firefighter insurer marks 25 years in business

March 3, 2016 – In 1991, Kip Cosgrove moved to Canada to fill a market niche: to provide a national insurance option for firefighters. Cosgrove brought the United States-based insurance company VFIS north of the border and at the 1991 International Association of Fire Chiefs conference held in Toronto, VFIS of Canada was launched. “Because […]

Alberta government to fund fire training

March 3, 2016 – The Alberta government is spending $650,000 to support fire and emergency-preparedness training for first responders in 50 municipalities and four First Nations. The funding is part of a Fire Services Emergency Preparedness Program aimed at volunteer and mutual-aid fire departments. The program will provide $500,000 for fire training and $150,000 for […]