Response times and diversity: Kitchener Fire master plan focus

Investments in technology and in people are some of the highlights of the Kitchener Fire Department's Fire Master Plan, approved this week by city council.

In an effort to arrive on the scene a lot faster, computers that show real-time road and traffic information will be installed in fire trucks. 

Rob Martin, deputy fire chief of the Kitchener Fire Department told CBC Kitchener-Waterloo the plan also includes opportunities to generate revenue, including an alarm monitoring program that could be utilized by other organizations.

"We have a training division that could offer training for other agencies, other municipalities," said Martin. "We are working toward creating a learning academy. So that's one avenue for revenue generation."

The Kitchener Fire Department (KFD) five year plan was approved by the City of Kitchener council on Monday. 

Plan 

Some of the highlights include:  

• Better using technology to reduce response times and make the department more efficient and effective.
• Cross training specific staff to allow broader application of their skills across multiple roles (for example, fire suppression personnel also conducting inspections in low and moderate risk occupancies).
• Continue to invest in staff by enhancing wellness and fitness activities that ensure mental and physical well-being and resiliency, including cancer scans earlier in the career.
• Continue to build an inclusive and diverse workforce by increasing awareness of existing programs and encouraging the development of new programs that will appeal to those not typically attracted to the fire service (for example, Young Female Firefighter program).
• Look to develop business opportunities to offer a variety of services to municipalities and others that will generate revenue.