Local Senior Takes Command as Niagara Falls Fire Chief for a Day
Photo and interview opportunities as the 2026 Older Adult Fire Chief for a Day Challenge winner is recognized, dons bunker gear, commands Station #1, and participates in firefighter training exercises.
NIAGARA FALLS, ON - Following a highly competitive community-wide fire safety campaign, one Niagara Falls resident is stepping out of retirement and into the Fire Chief's office for a day.
Members of the media are invited to attend two special events celebrating the Niagara Falls Fire Department's (NFFD) Older Adult Fire Chief for a Day Challenge. The grand prize winner earned the honour by demonstrating exceptional fire safety knowledge and emergency preparedness.
Media Opportunities
Fire-Safe Tea & Awards Ceremony
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 2:30 pm
Where: MacBain Community Centre
Top participants will be recognized as "Home Safety Heroes," and the Grand Prize Winner of the Older Adult Fire Chief for a Day Challenge will be announced.
Fire Chief for a Day Experience
When: Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 9:00 am
Where: Niagara Falls Fire Department Station #1 (Main Headquarters and Training Facility)
This event offers a variety of visual and interview opportunities for television, print, radio, and digital media, including:
- Swearing-In Ceremony and Uniform Fitting (9:00 am)
- Firefighter Training Exercises
- Station and Training Facility Tour
- Fire Truck Ride-Along
“This challenge proved that our older adult community members possess an incredible wealth of wisdom, and they've applied it beautifully to make Niagara Falls safer,” says Public Education Officer A.J. Lunn. “This isn't just a fun celebration, it's a showcase of a local senior who took charge of their home safety and earned the right to take charge of our station.”
On-site interviews will be available with the Grand Prize winner, Public Education Officer A.J. Lunn, and participating fire crew members.
For more information, please contact:
A.J. Lunn
Public Education Officer
Niagara Falls Fire Department
905-356-7521 ext. 2210
alunn@niagarafalls.ca