A new era for Central York Fire Services (CYFS) officially launched on Saturday, as the CYFS fire leadership team along with the Mayors and Councillors from the towns of Aurora and Newmarket officially opened Fire Station 4-5, CYFS' new 23,000 square-foot, headquarters and training facility.

Fire Station 4-5 is the first fire station to be jointly built by the two towns since their fire services were consolidated in 2002. With a central location at 300 Earl Stewart Drive in Aurora, along with innovative features and amenities, Fire Station 4-5 will strengthen CYFS' ability to respond to the needs of residents across both towns. 

"The opening of Fire Station 4-5 shows that we're growing as a service and evolving to meet the needs of our community," said CYFS Fire Chief Ian Laing. "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 energy efficient, multi-story facility houses two electric vehicle charging stations, a spray washing system to improve the longevity of fire trucks, numerous boardrooms and office space. Importantly, it is home to two working fire suppression crews which will help reduce response times.

"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," said Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas. "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." 

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.

"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."