The call always comes at the worst time. It interrupts dinners and birthday parties, lazy Sunday afternoons and deep, dreamless sleeps. It demands that people run toward what others run from. In Gananoque, more people are ready to answer that call – better trained, better equipped, and more prepared than ever.
With nine newly trained firefighters joining the ranks, a fire training facility taking shape, and a new Ford F-150 Responder on the way, the town’s fire department is growing in strength and capability.
The transition in leadership is now official, with Andrew Dickson stepping in as fire chief and Andrew Kent as deputy fire chief following the departure of former fire chief Gord Howard.
Gananoque’s firefighting force didn’t just train behind closed doors – it was out in the community, offering truck tours, obstacle courses, and even foam parties at events like Pump-Gan-Fest, Santa in the Park, and Fishing with Cops.
Firefighters also led a door-to-door smoke alarm campaign and fire safety education for students at all three local schools. Several members earned new National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications, further enhancing the department’s expertise.
Amid the progress, the department bid farewell to veteran firefighter Todd Sherboneau, who retired after 19 years of service.
With council’s approval, the department will soon add a dedicated response vehicle – a 2025 Ford F-150 Responder – to its fleet.
Purchased through the Provincial Emergency Services Cooperative Purchasing Group, the truck comes pursuit-rated and packed with enhanced safety features at a cost lower than a traditional purchase. Once fully outfitted, it will stand ready for the next call.