Peterborough Fire Services Launch Community Connect

Peterborough, ON – Residents and businesses can help inform first responders in the early stages of an emergency through Community Connect, a secure and voluntary program run by Peterborough Fire Services.  

Community Connect allows users to upload important details about a specific address. This information will be available to dispatchers and provided to firefighters if crews are responding to an emergency at that location.  

Participants can share as much or as little information as they are comfortable providing.  

Basic details, such as an email address or cellphone number, could help firefighters quickly connect with occupants at an address. Users may also choose to provide additional information including the number of people in the home, ages of residents, photographs of occupants and key locations, mobility or accessibility considerations, fire escape plans, and even pet details, including veterinary information. 

“Community Connect gives firefighters valuable insight before we arrive on scene, allowing us to assess conditions, anticipate challenges and make informed decisions as soon as a call comes in. That early awareness strengthens our response and supports safer outcomes for everyone involved,” said Peterborough Fire Services Chief Chris Snetsinger.  

“Community Connect is a simple but powerful way for residents and businesses to support our first responders,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “By sharing information ahead of time, people are helping ensure firefighters have what they need to protect lives and property during an emergency.” 

“This program puts preparedness into the hands of residents and businesses,” said Community Services co-Chairs Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk. “By sharing critical information in advance, people are actively supporting emergency responders and helping to improve safety across the community before an emergency ever happens.” 

Community Connect is free to use. For more information or to sign up for Community Connect, visit communityconnect.io/info/on-peterborough.