Online map created as part of provincially mandated community risk assessment
East Gwillimbury Fire and Emergency Services has launched a community risk assessment that identifies the top three causes of fire within each of the town's eight communities.
The data collected from the tool is used to assess risks and make decisions about the level and type of fire protection services needed, as well as develop fire safety programs and public education activities, according to a Town of East Gwillimbury news release.
An interactive map on the town's website identifies the top three causes of fire, with links to fire safety tips.
An added benefit of the interactive map is that it notes the top three languages spoken in each community, which will eventually guide the municipality in preparing important messaging in other languages, the town stated.
The fire and emergency services team worked closely with the town’s geographic information system team to develop the interactive map to ensure the public can access the information in an easy-to-understand way.
“We are excited to launch this interactive map for residents and know we are making big strides to enhance fire safety education in East Gwillimbury,” said Mayor Virginia Hackson. “I strongly encourage residents to look at the risks within the community and their home, to prevent potentially dangerous situations from happening. This is an important step in the right direction for fire prevention in East Gwillimbury.”
“The launch of the community risk assessment project is only the start,” said interim Fire Chief Larry Brassard. “This data is updated every four years using census information. We will continue to use this model to expand our public education programs and, in the future, include messaging in the top languages spoken in EG to help make information more accessible to all.”
In 2019, the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management announced Regulation O. Reg 378/18, which requires all Ontario municipalities to have a completed community risk assessment by July 2024.