Mayor Bevilacqua celebrates Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service recruits, recent promotions and new members

MunicipalInfonet.com
July 19, 2019

Pride. Honour. Protect. These are the core values that guide Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS). Tonight, the newest generation of firefighters were officially welcomed into the Service at a graduation ceremony held at Vaughan City Hall.

In total, 21 recruits solidified their commitment to protect the city, five recently promoted firefighters were applauded for their dedication to teamwork and six new employees who embody the City’s commitment to Service Excellence were recognized.

During the ceremony, graduates were awarded with completion certificates and the newly promoted VFRS officers were presented with designated helmets. Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Interim City Manager Tim Simmonds, Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi and Deputy Fire Marshal Doug Browne expressed their gratitude to the firefighters for the hard work they do every day to keep Vaughan and its citizens, businesses and visitors safe.

The recruits recently completed a rigorous 15-week program, which included fire prevention and public education training and hands-on fire suppression experience to learn and perform skills quickly and efficiently. Every year, hundreds of men and women apply to VFRS’s recruit program. After a careful selection process, only the most qualified and physically fit individuals are called to join the team.

VFRS continues to be recognized in Ontario as a leader in emergency service delivery. The Service also received a 100 per cent satisfaction rating in the City’s latest Citizen Satisfaction Survey.

For more information about VFRS, visit vaughan.ca/fire.

“On behalf of the City and the nearly 335,000 citizens who call Vaughan home, I extend congratulations to the new Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service recruits, as well as the firefighters who continue to excel in their professional journey in public service. Emergency services are vital to communities. In Vaughan, we are proud of the men and women of Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service who are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of our families, neighbours and the public spaces we use every day. The Service was awarded with a 100 per cent satisfaction rating from residents -- this is a testament to the important work Chief Deryn Rizzi, and all our brave firefighters undertake to safeguard our health and well-being. Today, I am honoured to officially welcome the new graduates and applaud their vow to protect the city of Vaughan with pride and honour.” -- Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua

QUICK FACTS

• VFRS has 360 fire service personnel, including 315 firefighters.
• The City of Vaughan has nine fire stations that provide full service emergency response within city borders; help to neighbouring municipalities is also provided, when necessary.
• A 10th station is currently under construction -- Fire Station 7-4 in Kleinburg. The project is anticipated to be completed by the third quarter of 2019 with active service starting soon after.
• The firefighter recruitment process can take more than six months due to the various steps and tough competition.