Fire News

2021 Firefighter Recruitment Kicks-Off

Posted on Monday, February 01, 2021 07:00 AM

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue launched the 2021 Firefighter recruitment process today with a few changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are pleased to announce that our recruitment process has officially begun,” said Fire Chief Greg Hankkio. “Our focus this year is to find operational savings through attrition, while at the same time maintaining adequate staffing levels within our professional fire service to meet the needs of the community.”

He added that with this focus, forecasting...

Outdoor Burning Hours to be Extended

Posted on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 11:00 AM

Starting on Dec. 17, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue will extend the outdoor burning hours from 12 pm to 12am daily until May 1, 2021. The current outdoor burning hours are 5 pm to 12 am daily.

“The outdoor burning hours were extended to allow families to enjoy time outside during the day while it is still light out,” said Fire Chief Greg Hankkio. “Outdoor burning permits are still required, and all permit rules and regulations still apply.”

He added that during the current pandemic, recommendations from the...

Local Firefighter Named to Canadian Olympic Bobsleigh Team

Posted on Friday, November 20, 2020 12:00 PM

Firefighter Stephanie Drost has been newly named to the Canadian Bobsleigh Team on track to the Beijing 2022 Olympics. She is one of the Brakemen for team Canada which has five pilots and eight brakemen in the system.

“About a year ago she had sent an email curious about bobsledding and the possibility of tryouts or how one would explore the sport, experience, and if there was any process established,” said Dave Paxton, Deputy Fire Chief.

“She was invited to try out in October of this year, and in...

New Fire Chief Appointed

Posted on Monday, November 16, 2020 08:15 AM

Greg Hankkio has been appointed Fire Chief for the City of Thunder Bay.

Chief Hankkio started his career as a firefighter with Thunder Bay Fire Rescue in 1991. He was appointed Deputy Fire Chief in 2007 and has been serving as Acting Fire Chief of Thunder Bay Fire Rescue since October of 2019.

“Greg Hankkio is experienced, dedicated and loves this City,” said City Manager Norm Gale in announcing the appointment. “He brings exemplary leadership and professional skills to the important role of overseeing...

Fire Cause Determined To Be Careless Disposal of Smoking Materials

Posted on Thursday, June 04, 2020 07:00 AM

An investigation by Thunder Bay Fire Rescue has concluded that the structural fire that occurred at 330 Lillie St. North on June 2, 2020, was the result of careless disposal of smoking material. Cigarette butts were found in the landscaped area that was covered in wood chips outside of an entrance to the building. Once ignited the fire spread to insulation on the outside of the building. Limited smoke entered the building and residents weren’t required to be evacuated.

Thunder Bay Fire Rescue is working...