Celebrate 175 Years of Whitby Fire on October 17

‘Doors Open’ event offers a behind-the-scenes look at Fire Headquarters, local history, and the people who serve the community

For 175 years, Whitby firefighters have been responding when the community needs them most. On Saturday, October 17, residents are invited to celebrate that history - and get a closer look at the work of today’s fire service - during Doors Open, an annual event that invites residents and visitors to explore unique and historic sites across the community.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Whitby Fire Headquarters, 111 McKinney Drive, will open its doors for a day of demonstrations, activities, and displays marking the milestone anniversary. This anniversary event, and the related memorial project, has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.

The day begins with remarks from the Mayor and local dignitaries at 10:15 a.m. inside the fire truck bay. Visitors can then explore the station, tour fire trucks, meet members of the fire service, try an obstacle course, learn how to use a fire extinguisher, and test their aim at the hose target.

Whitby Fire will also offer fire tower demos at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., a live-fire learning experience featuring a thermal imaging camera at 1 p.m., and a jaws of life auto extrication demonstration at 2 p.m., giving visitors a look at how firefighters prepare for emergency situations. Family-friendly activities throughout the day will include music from the Community Concert Band of Whitby, colouring sheets, airbrush tattoos, and self-guided museum tours featuring historical photos and Junior Fire Camp artwork.

One of the day’s special features will be a first look at the rendering of Whitby’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial, created by Canadian sculptor Ruth Abernethy. The memorial, which will be unveiled in 2027, will honour Whitby firefighters who died in the line of duty. Visitors will also have an opportunity to learn more about the story behind the memorial and the firefighters it will commemorate.

Other participating Doors Open sites to explore on October 17 include Burr Lodge, Lynde House Museum, and Warren General Store. See the full list at whitby.ca/DoorsOpen.

QUOTES

“For 175 years, Whitby’s firefighters have answered the call with courage and professionalism. This milestone is an opportunity to honour generations of past firefighters while celebrating the dedicated team that continues this proud tradition today. I invite residents to join us on October 17 to explore Whitby’s firefighting history and learn more about the people, training and equipment that keep our growing community safe.”

                - Elizabeth Roy, Mayor, Town of Whitby

“Reaching 175 years of service is an extraordinary achievement that speaks to the enduring commitment of Whitby Fire and Emergency Services and the individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving our community. This milestone allows us to celebrate our history, honour the sacrifices and accomplishments of those who came before us, and recognize the important role the fire service plays in keeping Whitby safe. On behalf of the department, I am proud to acknowledge this significant anniversary and the lasting relationship between the fire service and the community we serve.”

                - Mark Pankhurst, Interim Fire Chief, Whitby Fire and Emergency Services

"Whitby Fire has been part of the fabric of our town for 175 years. Behind every call is a firefighter who leaves their family to protect ours, and that commitment has earned the deep trust and gratitude of our community. I’m proud that our federal government is supporting this celebration, giving residents the chance to step inside Fire Headquarters, see how our firefighters prepare, and connect with the history they carry forward. The first look at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial will also be a meaningful moment to remember the seven local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. This is Whitby’s story: one of courage, service, and neighbours showing up for one another.”

                - Ryan Turnbull, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and National Revenue and to the Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions)
Member of Parliament for Whitby

“For generations, Whitby’s firefighters have been there when their community needed them most. This anniversary is a time to honour those who gave their lives in the line of duty. The Fallen Firefighter Memorial will ensure their courage and sacrifice are remembered for generations to come. Our government is proud to support this important tribute and mark 175 years of Whitby Fire and Emergency Services.”

                - The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages

“175 years of Whitby Fire is really a story about people and families. Generations of firefighters have served this community, and in many cases, generations of the same families have proudly worn the uniform. There’s a tremendous amount of history and tradition in this department, and I’m proud of the members who continue to carry that forward today. As we celebrate this milestone, we also remember the members we’ve lost along the way. This spring, we’ll proudly unveil our firefighters’ memorial, a permanent place to honour them and ensure their service remains part of Whitby Fire’s story for generations to come.”

                - Vice President Josh Girard, Whitby Professional Firefighters’ Association

QUICK FACTS

• Residents attending the event are asked to park at the Whitby Operations Centre, 333 McKinney Drive, and enter the formal ceremony through the rear bay door, as Fire Headquarters remains an active station.
• The 175^th anniversary event is funded through contributions from the Government of Canada.

For more information about Whitby Fire and Emergency Services, visit whitby.ca/Fire.