Port fire chief honoured with provincial award
Port Colborne Fire and Emergency Service’s efforts toward fire safety and prevention, and an award for both to be presented to its chief in June, are the result of a team effort, not just the efforts of one individual, says Tom Cartwright.
Cartwright, leader of the city’s fire services for the past 17 years, was named Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association fire chief of the year — selected for his hard work in the area of fire prevention.
“Chief Cartwright has a distinguished career in the fire service, but most recently, after the fatal fire he has led incredible work on fire prevention in the city to ensure our residents are safe,” said Scott Luey, chief administrative officer.
In late 2016, Port Colborne and the rest of Niagara were devastated when a fire on Nickel Street tragically claimed the lives of four people, two of them children.
It’s been a difficult time since the horrific event, but the local population and city council, as well as other municipalities in the region, have shown plenty of support since it occurred.
“Our community really has rallied around our fire safety efforts,” Cartwright said.
He said the fire department has remained strong and rebounded by doing everything it can to protect local residents from a similar tragedy.
“It’s something we’ll never forget — it impacts everybody.”
Many firefighters were able to push the fire to the back of their memories better than others — but still today, there are signs that it does weigh heavier with some.
“Those types of incidents are cumulative on our people and we’re concerned about their
mental health and making sure they’re able to do the job in a safe manner,” the chief said.
In an interview Monday, Cartwright said he couldn’t have achieved his award without the assistance of the men and women in Port Colborne’s fire service.
“I can’t do it myself — it’s the people I work with that got me it,” he said.
A firefighter since 1972, Cartwright said the field has evolved a lot over the last more than four decades he has served, but raising awareness about risks and the importance of warning devices in homes and businesses is more important than ever.
“Fire prevention and education are certainly at the forefront
of fire services today,” he said.
“I think that needs to be done in a more forceful manner.”
Cartwright said the fire department
will continue with various safety and prevention efforts throughout the year.
He will accept the award at the OMFPOA Chapter 8 62nd annual Training and Educational Symposium on Wednesday, June 13, at Caesars Windsor.