FIRST
RESPONSE READY
TRAINING PERIOD
START
SEP 2026
END
May 2027
First Response Ready (FRR) uses an accessible hybrid training model that combines online learning, in-person instruction and virtual scenario-based training to support EMR certification. Built by firefighters for firefighters, the program is grounded in operational experience. Its scenarios draw from real emergency incidents and reflect the situations firefighters encounter on medical calls, ensuring that experience is practical and immediately applicable.
Medical calls represent a sizable portion of the incidents firefighters respond to. Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training equips firefighters with advanced assessment and patient care skills, enabling them to provide a higher level of support while awaiting EMS arrival.
04
Upon completion of the First Response Ready program, firefighters take the certification test and receive EMR certification from Red Cross.
Certification
03
VR scenario training is designed to supplement in-person training and provides an additional layer of experiential multi-user training that simulates real-world environments. It builds a firefighter's ability to respond to common and complex emergencies. Firefighters repeat high-pressure scenarios as often as they need, in a safe and controlled environment. Immediate feedback from instructors on each run sharpens how they make decisions.
Virtual Reality (VR) Scenario Training
02
Shift Training Instructors (STIs) lead firefighters through hands-on scenarios. Through realistic simulations, firefighters practice conducting primary and secondary assessments, monitoring of vital signs, managing airway, breathing, and circulation, and providing emergency care on scene. They also refine their ability to triage and treat patients during large-scale incidents and when resources are limited. The scenarios also teach firefighters how to communicate and hand-off patients to paramedics when they arrive.
Hands-on EMR training
01
Training starts with online learning that builds the foundation for the rest of the program. Situational and conversational style videos strengthen the firefighters' understanding of medical equipment, decision making processes, and patient assessment when responding to medical calls. This knowledge prepares firefighters for the in-person training that follows.
Online Learning
what’s included
KEY
TAKEAWAYS
01
Certified with Real
World Skills
Firefighters receive EMR certification with real world scenario training ensuring they have the skills needed to provide emergency pre-hospital care.
02
Confidence Under Pressure
03
Ongoing Support
Departments now have Shift Training Instructors which allow for recertification and training to continue in-house.
04
Community Impact
EMR trained firefighters provide a higher level of emergency care.
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© 2026 Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association. All rights reserved.
FIRST RESPONSE READY
Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association