Kiera Merriam | April 14, 2026
South Bruce OPP is warning residents about an ongoing fraud involving callers impersonating local fire departments.
Individuals have reported receiving phone calls from someone claiming to be from a local fire department. The call display may appear to show a legitimate local number and the caller may name a local department.
The caller will then ask for donations to help with equipment or training or mention a particular fundraiser or campaign.
One victim reported to Saugeen Shores Hub that the caller quoted a "Teddy Bear Campaign" but when they inquired with their local department, no such campaign existed.
Members of local fire departments will generally hold in-person fundraisers and public events, read the release. They will generally not call to ask for donations over the phone.
If you believe you have been contacted or were scammed in this way, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
You can also report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at antifraudcentre.ca, even if a financial loss did not occur.
