Muskoka Lakes Fire to Host Mobile Live Fire Training Unit (Oct. 28 - Nov. 4)

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, Oct. 27, 2025 – The Muskoka Lakes Fire Department will host a Mobile Live Fire Training Unit (“MLFTU”) at Fire Station 6 in Port Carling from Oct. 28 to Nov. 4, 2025.

The MLFTU is a propane-fueled state-of-the-art live-fire simulator, expertly managed by Ontario Fire College instructors and funded by the Office of the Fire Marshal (“OFM”). This initiative is designed to enhance crucial firefighting skills, including fire suppression, pumper operations, and incident management systems.

“Live fire training is a critical part of firefighter development. The Mobile Live Fire Training Unit gives our crews the opportunity to gain experience in high-risk scenarios within a safe, controlled environment,” said Megan Sutherland, Deputy Fire Chief. “This hands-on approach enhances our ability to respond effectively and safely when real emergencies happen.”

This training is closed to the public.

Members of the public may see an increased presence of fire personnel, along with visible smoke and related odours, in the area of Port Carling and the times outlined in the training schedule below.

Training Schedule:

• • Tuesday, Oct. 28 (2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, Oct. 29 (2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
  • Thursday, Oct. 30 (2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
  • Friday, Oct. 31 (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
  • Saturday, Nov. 1 (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
  • Sunday, Nov. 2 (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
  • Monday, Nov. 3 (2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
  • Tuesday, Nov 4 (2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)

This unit is brought to municipalities at no cost as it is funded by the province to ensure accessible training throughout Ontario. These units are customizable, with adjustable walls and configurations to simulate various scenarios. The ability to train at home with familiar equipment and team members is vital.

To watch a sample of an MLFTU in session, visit: Ontario Fire Marshal's Office Mobile Live Fire Training Unit with Central York Fire Services.

For more information regarding fire and emergency services in the Township, visit: Fire and Emergency Services | Township of Muskoka Lakes

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For more information, please contact:
Megan Sutherland
Deputy Fire Chief, Training and Compliance
(705) 765-3156 x221
msutherland@muskokalakes.ca

For media inquires, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca

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MORE INFORMATION | What is the MLFTU?

The Dräger Mobile Live Fire Training Unit (MLFTU) is a 53-foot, multi-purpose training vehicle designed for training versatility and ease of transport. It is equipped with an on-board generator and a supply of gas cylinders. It can therefore be operated completely without external supplies. The MLFTU can also be combined with other fixed training installations. A second story can be hydraulically raised during operation and lowered for transport.

Firefighters are confronted with real flames, extreme heat, high humidity, severely restricted visibility and thick smoke during their training. This allows them to train for an emergency as realistically as possible.

To address individual training requirements, all systems are designed specifically for the customer. Applicable standards and the latest technology are incorporated in every design.

The selection of typical fire scenarios includes:

• • Kitchen
  • Bed/couch
  • Multiprop (various props available)
  • Wall fire
  • Rollover

Despite the extreme heat, the MLFTU is designed for safety during training. Redundant safety devices for gas and temperature monitoring in accordance with relevant NFPA and CSA codes and guidelines control the conditions in the burn areas. If defined limits are exceeded or the emergency cut-off switch is operated, the system is automatically switched off and forced ventilation is activated.

For more information, visit: https://www.draeger.com/en-us_ca/Products/Mobile-Live-Fire-Training-Unit-MLFTU-53