Fire and Rescue Services

For heat safety tips and information about local cooling centres, visit georgina.ca/ExtremeHeat.

Business owners and operators: Learn about your responsibilities under the Fire Code by visiting our Fire Code information for businesses page.

Follow us on X (Twitter)

Georgina fire ban

Until further notice, a fire ban on all outdoor and open-air burning is in effect for the Town of Georgina. Burning for any purpose including recreational fires is not allowed at this time.

This ban has been issued for the protection of property and public safety and is being implemented by Fire Chiefs region wide. The Town/Georgina Fire and Rescue Services will not be issuing open-air burn permits or agricultural burn permits until further notice.

Chief Ron Jenkins spoke at council Wednesday, Aug. 13, about the fire ban at the 11:03 mark of the recording.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a fire ban in Georgina right now?

Yes. A total fire ban is in effect throughout Georgina. This includes all outdoor and open-air burning, regardless of purpose. Fireworks and sparklers should also not be used during the fire ban. 

What types of burning are prohibited?

The ban covers:

  • Recreational fires (campfires, fire pits)
  • Agricultural and brush burning
  • Burn barrels and chimineas
  • Fireworks and sparklers

Can I still use my barbecue?

Yes. Gas and propane barbecues and other approved cooking appliances are allowed — but use them with caution and never leave them unattended.

Why is the fire ban in place?

Due to:

  • Prolonged dry weather
  • Extreme heat warnings
  • Elevated wildfire risk across southern Ontario

What are the penalties for violating the ban?

Violators may face:

  • Charges under the Ontario Fire Code
  • Fines may apply
  • Additional costs for emergency response

How long will the ban last?

The ban is in effect until further notice. It will be lifted only when weather conditions improve and it's safe to do so.

Am I allowed to use my gas/propane burn table?

Yes, this is a controlled burn that does not produce sparks. You must follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding required clearance.

Can I use my propane/or electric outdoor heater?

Yes, you must follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding required clearance and use.

I have a wood fired sauna. Can I use it?

Yes, if the sauna is manufactured (not homemade) and the fire is safely contained where no sparks will be produced. You must follow the manufacturers’ instructions.

Where can I get updates?

Stay informed via:

Official Town channels including social media, Town website, local news outlets.

Battery Recycling

Georgina Fire and Rescue Services have partnered with Call2Recycle – Battery Recycling – to provide an opportunity for the community to safely drop off used batteries. They can be dropped off at the Keswick fire station between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Don’t let dead batteries become a hazard. For more information on recycling batteries, visit recycleyourbatteries.ca.

Mission and services provided

The mission of Georgina Fire and Rescue Services is to provide the utmost professional and competent service through its commitment to quality and excellence in the community for residents and visitors.

Georgina Fire and Rescue Services provides a range of services to residents and visitors in the Town of Georgina, including:

Our services and mandate are outlined in the Establishing and Regulating By-law. The department runs as a composite department with three fire stations that provide 24-7 protection to residents.

Fire and safety reminders

Garage safety

The garage is beginning to become an extension of the home. Ensure your garage is safe from fire. Always use a licensed electrical contractor to inspect and install additional circuits or outlets, and to complete any repairs to your electrical system. Contact the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) for a licensed electrical contract near you.

Store gasoline in tightly capped, labelled and approved containers. The max quantity you can store is 30 litres. Refuel equipment such as lawn mowers and snow blowers outside and only when cooled.

Do not store propane gas cylinders in your garage or home. Store them outside and away from your home. Frequently dispose of flammable and combustible materials that are no longer needed or used

Encourage smokers to smoke outside. Avoid emptying smoking materials directly into the garbage. Soak cigarette butts and ashes with water first and then discard into the garbage can.

Farm safety

People, animals and property are in danger when fire breaks out on the farm. Inspect your barn and outbuildings for fire hazards to reduce the risk of tragic loss.

Keep your farm safe from fire. Ensure your electrical equipment is labeled for agricultural or commercial use. Check that all wiring is free from damage and do not use extension cords in the barn.

Barns are full of items that can ignite easily, remove the hazard of smoking and make your barn a smoke-free zone. Provide your workers and staff with fire extinguisher training. Ensure everyone in the barn knows personal safety is the first priority if a fire breaks out.

Tornados

Tornadoes can travel quickly, leaving a path of destruction in their wake. A tornado can also be fairly small and only touch the ground momentarily. Warning signs that a tornado may form include severe thunderstorms, very dark clouds highlighted with a few green or yellow areas, a rumbling sound, and a funnel cloud forming at the base of a dark cloud.

Make sure you and your family are prepared. Create a personalized 72-hour kit for your entire family. Kits should include practical items such as drinking water, food, cash and a portable radio. However, they should also include items that are unique to your own families’ needs. This could include baby items, medical prescriptions, pet food, etc.

Have practice drills with your family, so you know what to do and are prepared. Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a tornado, preferably a basement. Make sure it is away from external doors, windows and walls. Always pay attention to weather warnings. Visit Environment Canada for up-to-date warnings.

Extreme heat

We may think of Canada as the winter capital of the world, but summers can get very hot. A prolonged period of heat can become dangerous for many people. Make sure you know those who are most at risk in your neighbourhood, such as the elderly, children and those who are sick or in need of extra assistance.

Heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke can happen to anyone who stays in the heat and sun for too long. Watch for symptoms of heat illness, such as:

  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache
  • Rapid breathing and heartbeat
  • Extreme thirst
  • Decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine
  • Changes of behaviour in children

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you are caring for someone who displays:

  • Signs of heat illness
  • Unconsciousness
  • Confusion
  • Or has stopped sweating

Learn more at georgina.ca/ExtremeHeat.

Pet safety

We are into the dog days of summer. Every Friday on X, we will be sharing pet safety tips to help keep your pets and you safe from the risks of fire. Be sure to check out and follow us on X for the latest pet safety tips.

Pets are curious. They may bump into, turn on or knock over cooking equipment. Keep pets away from stoves and countertops.

Keep pets away from candles, lamps and space heaters. Consider battery-operated, flameless candles. They can look and smell like real candles.

Have working smoke alarms on every level of the home. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month.

What3Words

What3Words is a free app that helps Georgina Fire and Rescue reach you faster. If you’re lost or need help, find your location's three words and share them with emergency services to ensure they know your exact spot. Before your next adventure, download the app from Google Play or Apple App Store.

Person sitting on a park bench in front of water with a bicycle and trees with a box that sys iceberg.soup.geologist Ontario, Canada

Get your location

Burn permits

Applications available online

fire burning in a chiminea on a patio

Online permit applications for Agricultural and Open-air Burn Permits are now available.  

Fire and Rescue Services staff

  • 1 Fire Chief
  • 2 Deputy Fire Chiefs
  • 2 Administrative Assistants
  • 2 Public Educator/Fire Prevention Inspectors
  • 1 Fire Prevention Officer
  • 1 Training Officer
  • 40 Full-time Firefighters
  • 60 Volunteer Firefighters

Contact information

Headquarters/main office 

Keswick Fire Hall (Station 1-4)
165 the Queensway S.
Keswick, ON, L4P 3S9
Phone: 905-476-2332
Fax: 905-476-7740
Email: georginafire@georgina.ca

Sutton Fire Hall (Station 1-6)
37 Snooks Rd.
Sutton, ON

Pefferlaw Fire Hall (Station 1-8)
270 Pefferlaw Rd.
Pefferlaw, ON

Community partners

We also support our community partners in their efforts to ensure the health and welfare of our citizens are in good hands.

York Region Paramedic Service 
York Region Public Health
York Region Police (YRP) Services

Contact Us

26557 Civic Centre Rd,
Keswick, ON  L4P 3G1

T: 905-476-4301 / 705-437-2210
F: 905-476-8100
info@georgina.ca

Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.