City of Niagara Falls launches “Fire Chief for a Day” contest to help older adults stay safe at home

NIAGARA FALLS, ON — The City of Niagara Falls Fire Department is launching a new, interactive fire safety contest for older adults (60+), designed to help them identify potential hazards in their homes and build safety plans, in support of Seniors Month this June.

The “Older Adults Fire Chief for a Day Challenge” officially launches on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the MacBain Community Centre, with a special kickoff event featuring a fire safety presentation, light refreshments, and the opportunity to pick up contest materials.

The presentation will be delivered by Fire Prevention Officer and Public Educator A.J. Lunn, who will share practical tips to help participants stay safe at home.

The contest invites participants aged 60+ to complete a home fire safety checklist and create a simple safety plan, while also submitting a short entry explaining why they should be named “Fire Chief for a Day.” Entries can be submitted as a written letter or email, or creatively through a video, with optional photos to showcase completed safety steps.

“Safety training doesn’t have to be scary or boring,” says Public Education Officer A.J. Lunn. “Our residents and members have a lifetime of wisdom. This contest simply gives them the tools to apply that wisdom to their current living spaces, ensuring they stay safe and independent for years to come.”

Contest packages will be available at the launch event and online at niagarafalls.ca/fire-contest. Entries can be submitted in person or by email.

Submission deadline: 11:59 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026.

Contest Launch Event

Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Time: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Location: MacBain Community Centre (Rooms D & E), 7150 Montrose Road

• Contest launch and materials pickup
• Fire safety presentation by A.J. Lunn
• Coffee and light refreshments

The challenge wraps up with a “Fire-Safe Tea” and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (1:00 to 3:00 p.m.) at the MacBain Community Centre, where participants will be recognized as Home Safety Heroes.

Prizes:

• Grand Prize: “Fire Chief for a Day” experience and Fire Safety Bundle (including smoke and carbon monoxide alarms)
• Runner-Up Prize: Fire Safety Bundle (including smoke and carbon monoxide alarms)

Media are invited to attend the “Fire-Safe Tea” and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the MacBain Community Centre, where participants will share what they’ve learned and showcase their home safety plans.

Additional media opportunities will be available on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 during the “Fire Chief for a Day” experience.

Older adults, families, and caregivers are encouraged to participate and help promote safer homes across Niagara Falls.

For complete details and materials, visit: niagarafalls.ca/fire-contest

For more information, contact:
A.J. Lunn
Fire Prevention Officer/Public Educator
City of Niagara Falls
905-356-7521 ext. 2210
alunn@niagarafalls.ca