First responders from different areas of southwestern Ontario will be in Sarnia this weekend for the Lambton County Firefighters 27th Annual Fire Trade Show.
Warwick Township Fire Chief Brad Goodhill said firefighters from Lambton, Perth, Elgin, Chatham-Kent, and Middlesex counties will attend the event at Lambton College Fire School on LaSalle Line on January 24 and 25.
Over 35 vendors are expected to be at the trade show.
"Displaying all of the latest firefighting equipment, including virtual training programs, new extrication tools, and all other aspects that pertain to the fire service," he said. "All fire departments will have a chance to view the latest and greatest equipment that they will need to utilize for the safety of their community."
Goodhill said the equipment and technology used have changed tremendously over the years. He specifically mentioned updates to extrication equipment.
"New car technology and the steel that is used in the new [body structure] of the vehicles has become so much stronger, therefore, a lot of the extrication tools have to be so much stronger and able to cut through the new metals," said Goodhill.
Friday's event will include guest speakers from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., where topics discussed will include lithium-ion fire updates and electric vehicle extrication. Registration is required and costs $15.
The trade shows will be free to attend and open to the general public.
Friday's trade show will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday's event will be held from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.