CONTEST: Name Norfolk’s Safety Squad!
But there’s just one problem… they don’t have names yet!
You might have already seen these cool characters around town. They were designed by a talented local high school student, Will Wesh, during his co-op with Norfolk’s Communications team. Now it’s your turn to help by giving them names that are fun, bold, and totally unforgettable.
Each member of the Squad is based on a real animal that lives right here in Norfolk County. They’re brave, smart, and ready to help—but they need names to match their personalities!
How will the winning name be selected?
You can enter your best name ideas for one, some, or the whole team.
Norfolk's Communications team will short-list the top three names and post them here on EngageNorfolk.ca so that residents can vote on the winning name.
The person who submits the winning name for each character will WIN a $50 VISA gift card AND a Norfolk Safety Kit. So get creative and have fun! The contest deadline is Friday, October 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
Contest timeline
- July 30, 2025: Contest opens
- October 31, 2025: Contest entry period closes
- November 3, 2025: Top three finalists shared here on EngageNorfolk
- November 3 - 16, 2025: Community voting on the top name
- November 17, 2025: Winning names announced and winners contacted
- December 12, 2025: Prize pick-up deadline
What’s a Ward?
A Ward is like a neighbourhood or area within Norfolk County. Norfolk is divided into seven Wards, and each one has its own local representative on County Council. That means people in each Ward have someone who speaks up for their community and helps make decisions for the whole County.
Each mascot in the Safety Squad represents one of these Wards—so no matter where you live in Norfolk, there’s a mascot from your area!
Not sure which Ward you live in? Check out our Ward map at norfolkcounty.ca/Ward.
About Norfolk’s ecosystems
Norfolk County is a special place because it has so many different kinds of nature all in one area! From sandy beaches and wetlands to forests and farmlands, Norfolk is home to all sorts of animals and plants.
We have rare turtles, colourful birds, and even animals that are hard to find anywhere else in Ontario. That’s why people call Norfolk the “Carolinian Canada” zone—it’s one of the most unique ecosystems in the country!
Our Safety Squad mascots are based on real animals that live in these amazing habitats. They remind us how important it is to take care of the places we call home.
Want to learn more? Check out these websites:
- Southern Norfolk Sand Plain Natural Area
- Species at risk in Ontario
- 39 MOST Common Animals in Ontario
- Animals of Ontario
Contest guidelines
Before you send in your name ideas, here are a few simple rules to follow:
- Keep it kind: Names must be respectful and appropriate for all ages. Please do not use rude, mean, or offensive words.
- Be original: Try to come up with creative and unique names. Consider the mascot’s animal, personality, and where they live in Norfolk.
- Short and sweet: Names should be easy to say and remember. One or two words are perfect! For example, "Sandy Sandhill"—but we know you can come up with something better.
- One entry per person: You may submit names for one, some, or all mascots—but only one submission per person is allowed.
- Have fun! This is your chance to be creative and help bring the Safety Squad to life. There are no wrong answers (as long as they follow the rules).