The Northumberland County Mutual Aid Association celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday, June 4, 2026, marking 75 years of the mutual aid system in Northumberland County and across Ontario.
The anniversary event was hosted at the Codrington Fire Hall in Municipality of Brighton and brought together firefighters, municipal leaders, provincial representatives, and retired fire service members to recognize decades of cooperation among local fire departments.
A number of dignitaries attended the celebration, including Deputy Fire Marshal Bryan Burbidge, MPP David Piccini, Fire Chief Jeremy Parkin, President of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, Mark MacDonald, Executive Director of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, Northumberland OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Mike Cavanaugh, Brighton Mayor Brian Ostrander, CAO Elana Arthurs, and members of Brighton Council.
Special recognition was given to retired fire service leaders who have played important roles in the county’s firefighting history. Among those honoured were retired Fire Chiefs Harry Tackaberry and Lloyd Hutchinson, along with retired Deputy Fire Chief Phil Fisher.
The Northumberland County Mutual Aid Association brings together neighbouring fire departments on a regular basis to discuss common issues, share best practices, and strengthen working relationships.
Representatives from fire departments across the county meet Quarterly and each Municipality takes turns hosting an event, it not only show cases the host Fire Department, networking and building strong relationships. helping ensure departments remain prepared to work together when emergencies occur.
The mutual aid system has long been a cornerstone of fire protection in Ontario. When a municipality’s firefighting resources become overwhelmed during a major incident, or when specialized equipment is required, assistance can be requested from neighbouring departments through the mutual aid network.
The Mutual Aid Coordinator and Deputy Coordinators will be contacted by the home department or through Dispatch. The Mutual Coordinators will move equipment around the County to back fill stations, supply additional resources to ensure the areas are covered. The system is routinely utilized during large structure fires, significant motor vehicle collisions, and other emergencies that require additional personnel or equipment.
Over the past 75 years, the mutual aid system has helped ensure residents receive timely emergency response regardless of municipal boundaries. The partnership among departments has allowed communities to access specialized resources and expertise that may not be available within their own jurisdiction.
Adding to the celebration was a special appearance by the Canadian Armed Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team. The elite military demonstration team entertained attendees and helped commemorate the milestone anniversary, highlighting the spirit of teamwork and cooperation that has defined the mutual aid system for three-quarters of a century.
The evening served as both a celebration of the past and a reminder of the importance of collaboration among emergency services, ensuring Northumberland County’s fire departments remain ready to answer the call whenever help is needed.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
