Innisfil Fire and Rescue Services has become the first fire department in Canada to carry neffy, a needle-free epinephrine nasal spray, as part of its emergency medical response kits.
The spray is designed to treat anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can escalate within minutes after exposure to triggers such as food, insect venom, or medication. Epinephrine is considered the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, where rapid recognition and treatment can be lifesaving.
Fire Chief Brent Thomas said the addition gives crews another option alongside traditional auto-injectors and reflects the department’s focus on improving patient care.
“When our crews respond to a call for anaphylaxis, seconds truly matter,” Thomas said. “Being the first fire department in Canada to carry a needle-free epinephrine option reflects our commitment to innovation and to removing barriers to rapid, effective care.”
Speaking at an Aug. 6 media event, Thomas said being first was not the department’s goal. “Our goal was simple: to provide the best possible care for our community, period,” he said.
The nasal spray can be easier to administer in high-stress situations and may reduce fear or hesitation associated with needles. Thomas said the option strengthens support for people living with severe allergies and gives firefighters another safe, practical tool to use when minutes matter.
Francesca Passudetti, director of marketing for ALK Canada, said having more than one treatment option can help when anxiety or hesitation around needles is a factor. “When a severe allergic reaction strikes, every second counts,” she said. “This allows a sense of security for families living with severe allergies.”
The product had to clear regulatory requirements before it could be used by Innisfil Fire and Rescue Services, including approval from Health Canada. Passudetti said the department approached the company about introducing the spray.
“They were embracing a progressive approach,” Passudetti said. “This fire department is very advanced and out front of innovation and new technologies, and we were really excited to partner with them.”
The department has trained 40 career and 20 volunteer firefighters on the device. According to the department, neffy units are now deployed across three response vehicles and three stations.
“Epinephrine remains the cornerstone of the early management of anaphylaxis, and every effort should be made to reduce barriers to its prompt administration,” said Dr. Ian Young, the fire service’s medical director. “The addition of intranasal epinephrine provides another evidence-based option that may reduce hesitation, increase confidence for responders, and improve patient acceptance of life-saving treatment.”
The rollout also comes amid broader discussion about epinephrine access in community settings. According to the Town of Innisfil, a Food Allergy Canada survey found that while 91 percent of Canadians believe paramedics carry epinephrine devices to treat severe allergic reactions on scene, confidence drops to 64 percent for firefighters, highlighting uncertainty about who is equipped to act in the first critical minutes.
