Introduction
As early settlers worked to develop North Bay, protection from fire quickly became a pressing need.
The North Bay Fire Department
A bylaw to create a fire department was passed on March 24, 1893.
Transportation Building Fire
The spectacular fire and collapse of the Transportation Building left a dramatic impact on the North Bay landscape.
The Mackey House Fire
On February 18, 1945, the Mackey House block was devastated by a fire that started in one of the upstairs bedrooms.
Barry Building Explosion
On January 8, 1975, an accident that occurred during a routine excavation had devastating consequences.
Airport Hill Gas Explosion
On May 17th, 1961, a fault in the Alberta-Eastern Canada natural gas pipeline on Airport Hill caused an explosion which ripped a hole 150 feet long in the ground and threw boulders into nearby houses.
Richardson’s Fire
In 1998, one of North Bay’s longest running businesses was lost to a fire that engulfed the store.
Thibeault Tragedy
These photos capture the heart-wrenching scene following what was likely the worst house fire in North Bay’s history.
Arcadian Tea Room Fire
The restaurant remained a community meeting place until it caught fire on November 30, 1957 and burned to the ground. It was not rebuilt.
Nipissing Junction Esso Fire
An early morning blaze destroyed the Nipissing Esso gas station on Hwy 11 and the Nipissing Junction.
Queen’s Hotel Fire
On January 27, 1937 fire broke out at the Queen’s hotel at the corner of Fraser and and Oak Street.
City Laundry Fire
After catching fire in 1942, City Laundry was rebuilt. On June 13,1990 the building caught fire once again.
Imperial Oil Warehouse
These photographs show a fire at the Imperial Oil Warehouse at Harriet Street and Main West, on May 30, 1950.
Lefebvre’s Source for Adventure and Vested Interest Fire
A fire broke out at Lefebvre’s Source for Adventure on January 3, 2012 and caused extensive damage to the building.
Fire Prevention
The North Bay, Widdifield, and West Ferris Fire Departments have always strived to encourage Fire Prevention as an important part of their purpose.
Exhibit Artifacts
From hoses to fire trucks, the equipment used for fighting fires has changed dramatically over the years.
