Township of Severn approves new Fire Master Plan

Township of Severn Council has approved a new Fire Master Plan, setting a 10-year roadmap for Severn Fire and Emergency Services with 52 recommendations focused on firefighter safety, service delivery, training, response planning, facilities, water supply, communications, fleet management, and records systems.

Prepared in 2025 and finalized in 2026, the plan is intended to guide Council and the department in policy, organizational, capital and operational decisions by identifying Severn’s current and anticipated fire protection needs and outlining strategies to address them cost-effectively.

The plan highlights key strengths, including a strong administrative team, dedicated volunteer firefighters, and proactive public education and code enforcement programs. It also points to ongoing challenges in recruiting and keeping firefighters, and in making sure enough firefighters are available on weekdays to carry out key emergency-scene duties safely and effectively.

“Council’s approval of this Fire Master Plan gives Severn a clear and practical roadmap our Fire and Emergency Service department for the next decade,” said Mayor Mike Burkett. “It will help guide decisions about staffing, training, facilities, equipment and service delivery so we can continue protecting our residents and businesses.”

“The Fire Master Plan gives us a strong foundation for the next 10 years,” said Ritch Lowell, Director of Fire and Emergency Services / Fire Chief. “It helps us strengthen prevention, training, response and long-term planning so we can meet today’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges.”