'Top-notch fire service': Aurora and Newmarket's first joint fire station strengthens coverage of both towns

'This facility will help us respond to emergencies faster, provide enhanced training,' Fire Chief Ian Laing says

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 28, 2022
Lisa Queen

Two decades after Aurora and Newmarket amalgamated their fire departments into Central York Fire Services, the first fire station built jointly by the two towns Is now open.

Dozens of residents turned out Sept. 24 for the official launch of Fire Station 4-5 at 300 Earl Stewart Dr. in Aurora, just a stone’s throw from Newmarket’s southern border., near Bayview Avenue and St. John’s Sideroad.

“The opening of Fire Station 4-5 shows that we’re growing as a service and evolving to meet the needs of our community,” CYFS Fire Chief Ian Laing said.

“This facility will help us respond to emergencies faster, provide enhanced training, and allow us to maintain equipment more effectively, while also providing opportunities for staff to strengthen their physical and mental health, a need which has been highlighted through the pandemic.”

The 23,000-square-foot fire hall and training facility will strengthen CYFS’ ability to respond to the needs of residents across both towns, he said.

The energy-efficient, multi-storey facility houses two electric vehicle charging stations, a spray washing system to improve the longevity of fire trucks, boardrooms and office space.

Importantly, it is home to two working fire suppression crews, which will help reduce response times.

In addition to being home to the administrative offices of CYFS, Fire Station 4-5 houses the services’ training division.

The facility also features dedicated fitness space for the health and wellness of staff.

Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas and Newmarket Mayor John Taylor praised the new station.

“This is a very significant day for the residents of Aurora and Newmarket, as it ensures they will continue to have access to a fire service that rivals the best in the Greater Toronto Area,” Mrakas said.

“I’m incredibly proud of how the two towns and CYFS came together to identify a need in our community and provided the funding, resources and expertise to get this project completed.”

Taylor agreed.

“Fire Station 4-5 is a real testament to what can be accomplished when we work together as partners,” said Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. “This facility will undoubtedly provide top-notch fire service to not just current residents, but future generations to come.”