Fire & Emergency Services
Protected around the clock by the Birchbay Volunteer Fire Department.
In an emergency, call 911.
The Birchbay Volunteer Fire Department — 22 trained volunteer firefighters under Fire Chief Abe Cordwainer — provides fire suppression, medical first response, and water/ice rescue from the Harbour Street fire hall, with automatic aid agreements with neighbouring townships.
Burn permits & fire bans
Open-air burning requires a burn permit between April 1 and October 31. When fire conditions require, the Fire Chief declares a ban — announced on this website's banner, social media, and the burn line (613-555-0178).
Smoke & CO alarms
Working smoke alarms are required on every storey and outside all sleeping areas; carbon monoxide alarms are required near sleeping areas in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. The department offers free alarm checks — book one at fire@birchbay.canadawebs.ca.
Emergency preparedness
Birchbay maintains an emergency response plan with the County. Residents are encouraged to keep a 72-hour kit — water, food, medications, flashlight, radio, and copies of key documents. During extended power outages, the Community Hall operates as a warming/cooling centre; openings are announced on the website banner and local radio.
Join us
The department recruits each spring — no experience required, full training provided. It's the best crew in the Village. Ask any member, or email fire@birchbay.canadawebs.ca.