Money is tight these days, that's why the North Bay Fire Department is having to think outside the box when it comes to new training facilities.
A good example are new fire training buildings built out of sea containers.
And rather than be on the hook for the entire cost, Fire Chief Jason Whiteley is looking for a partner.
"Right now the buildings are tentatively going behind Station 3 in Ferris, however, we are in discussions with Canadore College about a possible partnership and if everything goes well there, we would possibly put the buildings at the Commerce Court campus.
Whiteley says the two are looking at a few possibilities, including a new course at the College.
"Not only could Canadore increase their enrolment and revenue but get some revenue generation to help the fire department minimize operating costs at these facilities."
The estimated cost of construction is $266,000.
"We're looking for a very cost-effective way to build the props, so there's one multi-story multi-discipline prop where we won't be burning anything in there, but use artificial smoke to do all our training evolutions and rescue evolutions, and the second smaller building is what we call a 'dirty burn building' and that's where we'll be doing live fire training."
The buildings are separate because the building where the burning takes place requires much more maintenance. They are constructed from sea containers that can be constructed in a modular fashion, so when something needs to be replaced the sea container is pulled out and another put in.
Tiling is put in the container so the live fires won't warp the walls. Staircases and windows are added to simulate different kinds of buildings and conditions that firefighters face.
Right now, the department sometimes gets calls from building owners offering their structures for training, but only if there is training value.
"A lot of times it's just people wanting to get rid of their junk. A lot of times it's more dangerous for us to use," explained the Chief. "A good example was the Moe-Ze-On-Inn. That building we were unable to go into because of safety issues so we haven't really had anything to burn which means I can't meet my obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act."
It's hoped the buildings can be ready in about six months. They are moveable and expandable and low maintenance.
Meanwhile, talks with Canadore will resume in January about creating a partnership.
"There's a lot of advantages with cost efficiencies. I think it's a win-win. We see the potential. We think this could really work.
"We're looking at different partnerships with the Fire College and the Public Health and Safety Association of Ontario. We recognize the financial impact that this stuff has on the city so we're looking at an alternative that doesn't cost a lot to build.
"Our intention is to make it available to neighbouring fire departments as well. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act you need to train to the level of service you provide, and the two nearest facilities are Sudbury and Gravenhurst which you have to rent. I know Callander's fire chief and East Ferris' fire chief are looking at putting some of their fire training money to more realistic training."
