Middlesex Centre Fire Services have added a multi-use utility shelter to their specialized equipment list.
The portable shelter, which sets up quickly like a tent, can be used to protect those affected by an emergency or a disaster from the heat and cold, to support firefighting operations, and to serve as a mobile command centre.
“Getting out of the heat or cold and into a safe and dry space is critical for those affected by an emergency,” said Colin Toth, director of emergency services and fire chief for Middlesex Centre. “The portability and flexibility of this shelter offers us the ability to quickly set up such a space during any large-scale community emergency event.”
Middlesex Centre may also use the shelter as a cooling and warming station during extreme cold and heat events, or as temporary respite location during long power outages. While the municipality will maintain the shelter, it can be called into action if required by the County of Middlesex and other local and provincial emergency response agencies.
Middlesex Centre received a $47,005 Community Emergency Preparedness Grant from the Government of Ontario (Emergency Management Ontario) to purchase the shelter. The grant also provided funds for related equipment and supplies, such as lighting, heaters, generators, fuel and water.
To learn more about the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, visit ontario.ca/page/community-emergency-preparedness-grant
To learn more about emergency management in Middlesex Centre, visit middlesexcentre.ca/emergency-prep