By Cecilia Nasmith

Enbridge Gas's Project Assist program – which supplements existing training for Ontario volunteer and composite fire departments in the communities it serves – is how helping Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services purchase firefighting training materials.

Port Hope's is one of 20 Ontario fire departments to share this year's $100,000 donation, receiving $5,000 to purchase educational materials to help firefighters enhance their life-saving techniques.

Enbridge Director of Northern Regional Operations Luke Skaarup said in the announcement that safety is the company's priority.

“We’re proud to support Ontario firefighters who share our commitment to keeping our communities safe,” Skaarup stated.

Since the launch of Project Assist in 2012, 194 grants have been provided to Ontario fire departments for additional firefighter training.

“Firefighting can be dangerous and unpredictable, and these training materials positively contribute to the health and safety of firefighters and the broader community,” Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg said.

“This generous donation from Enbridge Gas allows our department to build a robust library of emergency response training resources and build on our incident management training program,” Acting Fire Chief Daniel Smith added.

Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services is a composite department providing emergency response to the urban and rural areas of the municipality. The department has three strategically located stations, which respond to fire, motor vehicle collisions, technical rescues, medical responses, hazardous material spills and natural disasters. The department’s fire suppression division is complemented by a strong fire prevention and public education program.

For more information, visit porthopefire.ca or follow the Twitter stream at @PortHopeFire.