Haldimand Museums’ ‘Heritage on Fire’ exhibit showcases local firefighting history for Fire Prevention Week 2022

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week (October 9-15, 2022), Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum in Selkirk is featuring a special exhibit showcasing the history of firefighting in Haldimand.

The exhibit features vintage equipment, firefighting gear, photographs and trucks, and provides an opportunity for all ages to learn how firefighters connect with their communities to promote public safety.

Free fire hats and colouring books will be provided to all children as they learn about the ‘Heritage of Fire’ and all things fire-related. It will be open during Wilson MacDonald Memorial School Museum’s regular hours – Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until October 28.

Admission is free but donations will be kindly received. Calling the museum ahead at 905-776-3319 to book a tour is recommended.

In addition to this exhibit, there are many ways households can learn about the role of firefighters and steps that can be taken to keep family members safe in the event of a fire.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is ‘Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape,’ and Manager of Emergency Services/Fire Chief Jason Gallagher is encouraging every household in the county to plan and practice a home fire escape.

“Everyone in your household needs to be prepared in advance so they know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. Given that every home is different, every home fire escape plan will also be different,” said Gallagher.

“Have a plan for everyone in the home. Children, older adults, people with disabilities and pets may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure that someone is assigned to help them,” Gallagher added.

Shortly after Fire Prevention Week concludes, Haldimand County Fire Department will begin recruiting new volunteer firefighters for 2023. Two public information nights will be held at Fire Station No. 4 in Cayuga (11 Thorburn St. S) for individuals who wish to learn more about what it’s like to be a volunteer firefighter, as well as the recruitment process. These sessions will be held at 6 p.m. on both October 18 and November 15, 2022.

For more information about fire prevention and fire services in Haldimand County, visit www.haldimandcounty.ca/fire-services.

For information regarding the ‘Heritage on Fire’ exhibit or other cultural programming at Haldimand Museums, contact museums@haldimandcounty.on.ca.