Two full-time Lakeshore firefighter positions improve response times

A Lakeshore Fire truck seen in Lakeshore, Ont. on Feb. 24, 2026. (Robert Lothian/CTV News Windsor)

The Municipality of Lakeshore has improved its response times by hiring two more full-time firefighters.

The positions were approved in April by council to help support the long-term sustainability of the Lakeshore Fire Department.

“This is a step in the right direction as Lakeshore Fire grows to fit the needs of our growing municipality,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey.

“We are incredibly lucky to be served by our dedication firefighters, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of staffing investments on the department. As a council, the investment in the full-time firefighters is a cost-effective solution to meet the challenges of emergency response.”

10 unfilled volunteer firefighter positions will be converted into the two full-time positions, which will be filled by current firefighters.

“The Lakeshore Fire Service is made up of a highly dedicated group of volunteer firefighters who will remain a vital asset to our communities for decades to come,” said Lakeshore Fire Chief Jason Suchiu.

“The traditional volunteer-based model in Lakeshore, like many communities across Ontario, has been challenged by growing demand, increased recruitment, and training costs, as well as the costly impact of turnover and retirement of long-serving firefighters. These impacts have highlighted the need to adapt the department in a cost-effective way.”

This change is expected to save more than $4,000 in 2027, according to the municipality, being offset by a reduction in training, recruitment, and equipment. It also cited stability and continuity, public education growth, and balanced service delivery as other benefits.