The Town of Whitby is building its first-ever fire training tower, with the four-storey facility expected to be open later this year.
Located at Whitby Fire Headquarters on McKinney Drive, the training will be designed to provide firefighters with realistic, hands-on training in a safe and controlled environment.
The tower will be equipped with burn rooms and training props and will be fuelled by liquid propane, allowing crews to simulate real-life fire scenarios. Firefighters can practice a range of skills, including high-rise firefighting, technical rescues and search and rescue operations.
One side of the fire tower will be designed to model a two-storey home, while the other sides will be modelled to represent the downtown core, a high-rise and an industrial setting.
“Training is the cornerstone to ensure our department is prepared to meet the ever-changing needs of our growing community,” said Mike Tucker, the Deputy Chief of Operations for Whitby Fire and Emergency Services. “This multi-level modern training tower will provide our firefighters with an opportunity to master their skills in a safe and controlled environment, under realistic conditions.”
Whitby Fire also plans to use the tower to support public education programs in the future.
When off‑duty, fire crews will be engaging in training drills and equipment maintenance, with live‑fire exercises part of their continuous practice. Whitby Fire also practices regular training on fire behaviour, rescue techniques, equipment use and handling hazardous materials.
“As our town continues to grow, so does the need to invest in the safety and well-being of our community,” said Mayor Elizabeth Roy. “This new, state-of-the-art fire training tower is a major step forward in ensuring that Whitby Fire and Emergency Services has the tools and training needed to respond effectively in any situation. It’s an investment in our firefighters, our residents and the future of our community.”