Welcome to the City of St Catharines Fire and Emergency Services Department.  I would like to introduce you to the 163 men and women who provide fire and life safety services to the citizens of St. Catharines.  These highly trained individuals deliver public education and fire safety programs, emergency response including technical rescue as well as ensuring the City has current emergency/business continuity plans to maintain essential public services. Tragically, every year close to 100 Ontario residents lose their lives in a fire, not to mention the thousands who are injured.   Many of these tragic incidents could have been avoided if there had been working smoke alarms placed on every level of their house.  Working smoke alarms save lives and I am committed to reducing the injuries and deaths that occur in St. Catharines through an aggressive public education and smoke alarm program.  Ensuring your family is prepared when the unexpected happens is where emergency preparedness and planning can assist.  In the coming months ahead, look for articles and information on our website that will provide tips and assistance to individuals and families, on how to be better prepared in the event of an emergency. If you have any questions, comments or concerns with the St. Catharines Fire and Emergency Service please contact me either by phone (905) 688-5601 ext 4201 or by the email link below.    Have a Fire Safe Day Mark Mehlenbacher Fire Chief