Answering the call: KFES welcomes 27 newly trained firefighters

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Fire and Emergency Services
General News
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King Township is recognizing 27 new recruits 2026-1 to King Fire and Emergency Services, who officially joined the ranks during a graduation ceremony held on June 22 at Fire Station 36 in Schomberg.  

The recruits began their journey in January 2026, completing a six-month training program that prepared them for frontline emergency response. They earned nationally recognized certifications, including NFPA 1001 Firefighter Levels I and II and NFPA 1072 Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations. Their training also included emergency medical response, live fire scenarios and hands-on exercises to prepare them for real-world situations.   

King Fire and Emergency Services serves a community of approximately 29,800 residents across three stations, with a team that includes both full-time staff and more than 150 paid-on-call firefighters who respond to calls 24/7 365 days of the year.  

Just last year, the crew responded to 1,716 calls—from fires and medical emergencies to alarms and rescues—supported by more than 70,000 volunteer hours and extensive public education. 

As they step into their new roles, these recruits will respond to a wide range of emergencies—from structure and wildland fires to motor vehicle collisions, medical calls and public hazards—while also supporting fire prevention education and community outreach initiatives.   

Our firefighters show up when people need help the most. Their commitment to protecting others, no matter the risk, speaks to extraordinary character, and many families and loved ones who provide support behind the scenes to make this possible. 

Thank you to this next generation of firefighters for stepping forward to serve our community with duty, trust and honour. 

 

Firefighters and recruits gathered in two rows