WHITBY, ON — The Town of Whitby marked an important milestone in community safety with a traditional “push-in” ceremony to officially place Engine 36 into service at Fire Station #4.
Surrounded by firefighters, town officials and community members, the ceremony symbolically welcomed the new fire truck into its station bay — a long-standing fire service tradition that dates back to the era of horse-drawn apparatus.
Engine 36 is the seventh staffed frontline vehicle for Whitby Fire and Emergency Services and represents a significant investment in emergency preparedness for the town’s rapidly growing population.
Mayor Elizabeth Roy said the new truck reflects Whitby’s commitment to proactive planning and public safety.
“Growth requires action. By investing in new equipment, a new fire station and additional firefighters, we are taking decisive steps to protect our residents and ensure our fire services can respond quickly and effectively when seconds matter most,” the mayor said.
Fire Chief Michael Hickey noted that Engine 36 is the result of years of planning to meet current and future needs.
“This new engine enhances our response capabilities today and prepares us for tomorrow. Together with the upcoming Station 6 and new firefighter roles, it strengthens firefighter safety and service delivery across the community,” he said, while thanking council for its continued support.
The Whitby Professional Firefighters Association also welcomed the addition, calling it a vital investment in both community and firefighter safety that supports effective response times and high service standards.
Until the opening of Station #6, Engine 36 will operate out of Fire Station #4, located at 734 Dundas Street, ensuring enhanced coverage and readiness as Whitby continues to grow.