Cognashene Community Safety

Instructions provided by Township of Georgian Bay Fire and Emergency Services. Familiarise yourself with these steps before an emergency.

1. 1 Prepare the Pump
   • Remove the pump, hoses, and nozzles from the pump house.
   • Place the pump on stable, safe ground near the water’s edge.
2. 2 Fill the Pump with Water (Prime)
   • Remove the water fill cap and fill the pump end with water.
   • Replace the water fill cap and hand-tighten.
3. 3 Connect Hoses
   • Attach the hard suction hose to the pump’s water inlet.
   • Connect the fire hose and nozzle to the pump outlet.
   • Have a second person hold the hose and nozzle for safety.
4. 4 Start the Engine
   • Turn the gas lever toward the engine to open the fuel.
   • Push the choke lever toward the engine.
   • Move the throttle lever halfway toward the engine.
   • Turn the red on/off switch to “on”.
   • Pull the starter cord to start the engine.
   • Once running, slowly move the choke lever back to off.
5. 5 Operate the Pump
   • Confirm your helper is ready and holding the hose.
   • Push the throttle toward the engine to increase water flow.
   • Aim the hose at the base of the fire, not the flames.
6. 6 Shut Down the Pump
   • Push the throttle lever all the way away from the engine.
   • Turn the red on/off switch to “off”.
   • Turn off the gas valve before storing the pump.

• Hydro Lines — Water conducts electricity. Never operate a pump or hose near power lines. Stop immediately if you see downed or low-hanging lines.
• Fuel Sources — Pumps run on gasoline. Only refuel when the engine is off and fully cooled. Keep fuel away from heat and open flames.
• Arrival of Firefighters — Stop all operations and follow firefighter instructions immediately when professional crews arrive on scene.
• Wildlife — Fires disturb animals. Snakes and other wildlife may seek shelter near water or pump locations. Stay alert and keep a safe distance.
• Proper Attire — Wear sturdy footwear, long pants, gloves, and eye protection. Avoid loose clothing near the pump engine.
• Heat Exhaustion — Pump operation is physically demanding in hot conditions. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and stop if you feel dizzy or unwell.

• Daytime burning only — fires must be extinguished before dark.
• Constant supervision — never leave a fire unattended.
• Extinguishment tools required — have water or a fire extinguisher immediately on hand before lighting.
• Road visibility — do not burn when smoke drifts across roads or driveways.
• Permit must be present — keep your permit on-site while burning.
• Burning is only permitted when the fire danger rating allows it — check the rating each day before lighting.
• Fires must remain controlled at all times. Permit holders are liable for any fire that escapes.

Large controlled burns require additional approval beyond a standard permit. You must have all of the following before lighting:

• A valid burn permit for the current year
• A completed Large Controlled Burn Application
• Written approval from the Township Fire Department
• Full fee payment in advance

Apply well in advance of your planned burn date as approval may take additional time beyond the standard 3-business-day permit window.

Open-air burning is governed by By-law 2019-18. Violations can result in:

• Immediate permit revocation by the Chief Fire Official
• Fire department response fees charged per apparatus per hour
• Fines and penalties under the by-law

The Chief Fire Official may revoke a permit at any time if a complaint is received or a by-law violation is confirmed.