Montréal’s Auxiliary Firefighters – 75 years of support

While firefighters risk their lives fighting flames, another group is hard at work: auxiliary firefighters. For 75 years, they have lent their assistance to the fire department on the ground during emergencies, offering support and comfort to firefighters and victims of fire by distributing blankets, hot beverages, refreshments, and dry clothes. They also provide first aid to people or firefighters who are injured or affected by smoke. To raise awareness of their history and the important role they play in keeping the city safe, Pointe-à-Callière has dedicated a display case to Montréal’s auxiliary firefighters.

Often on the front lines during major fires, the members of Montréal’s auxiliary firefighters have been able to collect, restore, and preserve photographs and objects relating to the city’s fire department over the years.

Part of their collection is displayed to visitors at Pointe-à-Callière to raise awareness of the history of fire management in Montréal. Items on display include helmets from various eras, extinguishers, hoses, and other pieces of equipment that allow Montréal’s firefighters and auxiliary firefighters to help save lives.