Ontario Doubles Fire Protection Grant to $20 Million for Cancer Prevention and Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

NORTH YORK — The Ontario government is doubling this year’s Fire Protection Grant from $10 million to $20 million, aiming to strengthen cancer prevention measures for firefighters and enhance emergency response to lithium-ion battery incidents.

Solicitor General Michael Kerzner said the funding increase reflects the province’s commitment to firefighter safety. “Firefighters are always there when we need them, running towards danger to protect our homes and our communities,” Kerzner said. “That is why we’re doubling this year’s Fire Protection Grant, giving firefighters across the province the tools they need to stay safe and effectively respond to life-threatening emergencies.”

Firefighters put it all on the line to protect Ontario.

That’s why today, I was proud to join members of @Toronto_Fire and fire chiefs from across the province to announce that, under the leadership of @fordnation, our government is doubling the Fire Protection Grant to $20… pic.twitter.com/tz7sQcweUY

— Michael Kerzner (@TeamKerzner) August 13, 2025

Funding Priorities

The grant is available to municipal fire departments for new and existing initiatives, including:

• Equipment, supplies, and PPE that strengthen cancer prevention programs.

• Tools and supplies for responding to lithium-ion battery incidents.

• Minor infrastructure upgrades, including enhanced broadband connectivity.

Addressing Rising Risks

Fire Marshal Jon Pegg noted that lithium-ion battery fires pose a growing threat. “With the growing risk of lithium-ion battery fires, this increased funding is another major step towards keeping Ontario’s firefighters and communities safe,” Pegg said, encouraging fire services to apply.

Application Details

Municipal fire departments can apply for funding through Transfer Payment Ontario from August 13 to September 30, 2025.

The Broader Impact

Ontario is home to approximately 33,000 municipal firefighters — over 12,500 full-time, 20,000 volunteer, and nearly 400 part-time. Cancer remains the leading cause of firefighter deaths, with 50 to 60 fatalities annually in Canada, half occurring in Ontario. The province’s Working for Workers Six Act, 2024 expanded cancer coverage for firefighters, reducing service requirements for certain occupational illnesses.

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