Oxford County enhances emergency preparedness with mobile decontamination trailer

New equipment strengthens response to hazardous materials incidents

Oxford County has added a mobile decontamination trailer to strengthen its emergency response capacity and protect residents, first responders, and the environment during hazardous materials incidents. 

The trailer was acquired through provincial funding from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry under the Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan, which helps municipalities prepare for and respond to risks associated with inactive and aging oil and gas wells. Southwestern Ontario has a long history of oil and gas production, and some inactive wells remain in communities across the region. Through this initiative, nine municipalities in southwestern Ontario received funding to enhance emergency preparedness and acquire specialized equipment.

The mobile decontamination unit can be deployed quickly to remove harmful substances from personnel, equipment and members of the public following exposure to hazardous materials. It can support incidents involving legacy oil and gas wells, industrial accidents, fires, wildfires and other hazardous materials events.

Having this specialized equipment available locally improves response times and reduces reliance on resources from outside the County. While large-scale decontamination events are uncommon, being prepared helps reduce health risks, limit environmental impacts and support safer emergency operations. 

Comment

Ben Addley, CAO, Oxford County
“Keeping residents safe is a responsibility shared by Oxford County and our area municipalities. Through strong local partnerships, and with support from the Province, we are ensuring the right resources are in place so we can respond effectively when emergencies occur."

Ryan Hall, Director of Paramedic Services and Emergency Management, Oxford County
“This trailer strengthens emergency preparedness in our community by ensuring specialized equipment is available when it’s needed. Having it positioned locally improves our ability to respond safely and effectively, supports mutual aid when needed, and reinforces our role as a dependable part of a broader safety network.”

Jeff Slager, Chief, Woodstock Fire Department
“In addition to being a valuable resource for firefighters in Oxford County as we implement cancer prevention initiatives, this trailer also provides decontamination services to members of the public who could be impacted during emergency incidents.”

Background

• Since 2023, the Province has committed nearly $10 million under the program to support training, equipment, public education and emergency planning across the province.
• In December 2025, the Province announced $4 million in additional funding under the Legacy Oil and Gas Wells Action Plan to support nine southwestern Ontario municipalities in strengthening emergency preparedness and acquiring specialized equipment.
• Prior investments have supported air monitoring equipment, road closure trailers, emergency shelter resources and enhancements to emergency operations planning.

About Oxford County 

Located in southwestern Ontario at the crossroads of Highways 401 and 403, Oxford County has a population of approximately 140,000 people across eight area municipalities that are “growing stronger together.” A partnership-oriented, two-tier municipal government, Oxford County is committed to 100% renewable energy, zero waste, zero poverty, and being 100% housed. Oxford County is situated in one of Ontario’s richest areas for farmland, with a diversified local economy that is home to an innovative agricultural industry, leading automotive manufacturers, and the Oxford County Cheese Trail. Oxford also offers a thriving local arts and culinary community, as well as conservation parks, natural areas and more than 100 kilometres of scenic trails. The County’s Strategic Plan puts forward a vision of “Working together for a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable future.” The Oxford County Administration Building is in Woodstock, Ontario. Visit www.oxfordcounty.ca, follow us on social media, or download our Facts and Stats to learn more.