Wednesday April 30 - Pre-Event Workshops Information

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Workshop 1: How to send a personalized video message via email, either to a large group, or 1 on 1

Maximum # of participants: 20 

Join Ottawa Public Information Officer, Nick DeFazio, for a hands-on workshop building on his popular presentation "Nobody Reads Your Emails." In this session, Nick will explore effective strategies for creating engaging personalized video messages via email, either to a large group or 1 on 1, that capture attention and communicate your message more effectively. Learn the essentials of video content creation, tips for making professional-looking videos with minimal equipment, and best practices for reaching your audience in a more dynamic way. Whether you're new to video or looking to improve your skills, this workshop will provide practical tools to enhance your communication efforts.

*Please note you will need a laptop for this workshop.*

Presenter: Nick DeFazio

Nick DeFazio has been the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Ottawa Fire Services since 2021. After completing a degree at the University of Ottawa, followed by pre-service Fire College, Nick joined the University of Ottawa’s Emergency Services Department. The highlight of his time working at the University was receiving an innovation award from the President of the University to improve student safety on campus. Nick joined the Ottawa Fire Services in 2011 a Dispatcher and served in that capacity for 10 years. In 2022, Nick won the Fire Chief’s Award of Excellence for his new and innovative strategies that he implemented as the PIO.

 

Workshop 2: Data and Analytics 101

This presentation will focus on designing and implementing a robust data collection and analytics program tailored to the needs of a modern fire department. The session will explore how advanced technologies and platforms—such as GIS tools from ESRI, data visualization capabilities of Power BI, fleet and telematics insights from GeoTab, and analytical solutions by Darkhorse Analytics—can transform operational efficiency, resource allocation, and decision-making. Participants will gain actionable insights into integrating these tools to improve emergency response, track key performance indicators, and foster data-informed strategies.

Presenters: Darkhorse, ESRI, GeoTab, and PowerBI

 

Workshop 3: Effective Command - Officer Development and Maintenance Training

An 8-hour workshop covering Incident Command curriculum, Officer training, skills assessment, and maintenance of competence. Scalable training methodologies and tools for all Fire Departments.

Presenter: Dr. Katherine Lamb and Fire Chief Brent Thomas

Dr Katherine Lamb is a respected authority on the training and assessment of Incident Command and crisis decision making. Katherine worked as an accomplished research academic before joining the UK Fire Service in 2004. In 2015, Katherine developed Effective Command, a behavioural marking system for the assessment and recording of incident command competence, which is widely used throughout the UK FRS. Following a presentation at the OAFC AGM in 2022, the OAFC deemed Effective Command the preferred tool for incident command training and Katherine is currently working with over 60 FDs in Ontario, Manitoba & Alberta regarding its roll out.

Brent Thomas is Fire Chief for the Town of Innisfil. Brent leads and manages the fire department's overall operations, which include fire suppression, staff training, emergency management, fire prevention, public education, and strategic service planning. He has over 39 years of progressive experience in emergency services, beginning as a paramedic before shifting to a career in fire services and progressing through the ranks. Before joining the Town of Innisfil, he most recently served as Fire Chief Bradford, Orillia Fire Department and prior to that, held various positions within Orillia and the Stoney Creek, Hamilton, and West Lincoln fire departments. Brent serves on the Board of Directors for the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs including chair of the Training and Education committee and vice chair of the industry committee and is part of the OAFC Peer Support team. He is also an advocate for pro active mental health and serves on the Mental Health/DEI Committee for the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Thomas is part of the Effective Command delivery team. In his spare time the Chief enjoys spending time with family and enjoying the outdoors.

 

Workshop 4: Chief Officer 101

Maximum # of participants: 50

The OAFC’s “Chief Officer 101” workshop was developed in 2023 to be a workshop delivered by experienced fire service leaders on all of the fundamentals every Chief Officer should know. This workshop will provide all Chief Officers (new and seasoned) with fundamental training on their roles & responsibilities as it relates to several different areas including fire prevention & public education, training & certification, health & safety, standards, strategic & master planning, community risk assessments, procedures & guidelines, budgeting & asset management, data & analytics and more.

Presenters: OAFC Board of Directors

 

Workshop 5: Inspections - Fire Safety Inspections - Options & Opportunities 

During this 8-hour workshop the following topics will be covered:

• Using the correct Inspection Orders
• How to respond to an OFM Review
• Correct use of an Immediate Threat to Life (Section 15)
• Participating at the Fire Safety Commission
• Preparing for AMPS
• New Fire Code
• AMA panel

Presenters: OAFC FPPE Committee and OFM Staff