Ottawa Fire Services maintains reliable response as demand grows

Ottawa Fire Services continues to provide emergency response residents can rely on, even as demand grows, according to its 2025 annual report received today by the Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee. 

Ottawa Fire Services received more than 125,000 calls for service to the communications centre in 2025. That is a nine-per-cent increase from the previous year, reflecting Ottawa’s growing population and the rise in more complex emergencies. While call volumes increased, the number of actual emergency responses rose only slightly, as several calls can relate to the same incident or do not require a fire response. Even with this increased demand, the service met most response time standards set by Council, delivering a strong and dependable response when every second counts. 

Medical calls attended by Ottawa Fire Services decreased by 12 per cent compared to the previous year, reflecting improvements to the emergency dispatch system with Ottawa Paramedic Service that help ensure emergency resources are used more effectively. In some areas, longer travel distances, traffic and growth in developing communities contributed to longer response times. Overall, performance remains strong and close to established standards, and the City is monitoring trends and planning ahead to maintain reliable service. 

The service is using data to decide where stations, staff and equipment are needed most. This ensures reliable coverage in both urban and rural communities today while also preparing for future growth. It maintains international accreditation, recognizing high standards and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

Prevention efforts are also making a difference. The False Fire Alarm Strategy is helping stabilize nuisance alarm calls, reducing unnecessary disruptions and ensuring firefighters are available for real emergencies when they are needed most. 

The report highlights Council’s continued investments in firefighters and the resources they need to serve residents safely and effectively. Last year, the service hired 90 new recruits, modernized facilities such as Fire Station 81 in Stittsville, and advanced planning for a new training facility. 

In 2025, the service also expanded mental health and wellness supports, including access to a staff psychologist, peer programs and cancer prevention initiatives. These efforts help ensure firefighters remain healthy, resilient and ready to serve when residents need them. The report also highlights efforts to build a more diverse workforce, including recruitment initiatives and partnerships that create pathways into the service for underrepresented groups. 

City Council will consider the report on Wednesday, June 10.