The Ontario Medal for Firefighter Bravery recognizes acts of outstanding courage and bravery by members of Ontario’s firefighting forces. This honour is an important way to demonstrate public support for firefighters across Ontario.
“Medal recipients often say they were just doing their jobs, but many Ontarians owe their lives to the bravery of these firefighters. They deserve our highest respect.”
-The Honourable James K. Bartleman, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
Any firefighter including volunteer firefighters in Ontario can receive the honour. The award may go to firefighters who were on-duty or off-duty. The medal may go to an officer who is no longer alive.
An Independent Advisory Council appointed by the Premier selects recipients.
The Lieutenant Governor gives each recipient their medal at a special ceremony held at Queen’s Park. Each award recipient gets a miniature of the medal, a framed certificate and a special ribbon.
What does the award symbolize?
The Ontario Medal for Firefighter Bravery is in the shape of a cross. It includes a circle of maple leaves, the Crown and symbolic flames. In the centre is a trillium, our provincial floral emblem.
Yes. Nominations are often made by members of a firefighting force. But any Ontario resident can nominate someone for this medal. Any civilian wishing to make a nomination is asked to contact the local Fire Chief.
Members of Ontario fire services or residents of Ontario can nominate a firefighter. Each nomination must be endorsed by a fire chief. The chief administrative officer or the clerk of the municipality must endorse the nomination of a fire chief.
Nomination forms may be submitted at any time. The deadline is July 31 of each year. All nominations received after this date will be considered for the following year.
Do you have questions about Ontario’s recognition programs? Contact us at the Ontario Honours and Awards Secretariat.

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