Central York Fire Services hosts annual Recognition Ceremony and unveils its new electric fire investigation van, powered by Milwaukee Tool

Central York Fire Services (CYFS) invites media to attend its annual Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, November 27 featuring the official unveiling of its new state-of-the-art electric fire investigation van, powered by Milwaukee Tool. As one of the only vehicles of its kind, this innovative addition to the CYFS emergency services fleet marks a major step forward in advancing sustainable fire investigation practices while enhancing the tools and technology available to fire investigators.

What:

Several CYFS staff will be presented with a congratulatory certificate or awarded with: Federal Exemplary Service Medals and Bars, Provincial Long Service Medals and Bars. One person will receive the Jim Allen Award. In addition, many will be recognized for a promotion or for joining the service team.

When:

Thursday, November 27, 2025 

Time:

Reception starts at 6 p.m. followed by ceremony at 7 p.m. 
Media tour of the new fire investigation van at 6:30 p.m.

Where:

Ian Laing Headquarters (300 Earl Stewart Drive, Aurora)

Who:

• Local Provincial and Federal representatives
• Members of Aurora and Newmarket Council
• Representative from the Office of the Fire Marshal
• Member of the Central York Professional Firefighters Association
• Central York Fire Services staff
• Family and friends of those being recognized
• Community partners including representatives from Milwaukee Tool

Background of the Jim Allen Award: Central York Fire Services has been hosting an annual Recognition Ceremony since 2010. The Jim Allen Award was introduced in 2018 in recognition of retired Captain Jim Allen for his tremendous contributions to fire services locally and provincially during his 37-year career. Each year, anonymous nominations are reviewed and recipients are selected by a committee representing a cross-section of CYFS staff and leadership. In 2024, Firefighter Marty Maurice was honoured with the award for his development of a new hands-on tactical aerial operation program and training.

About the Central York Fire Services

Central York Fire Services (CYFS) is a consolidated fire department that provides protection to the Towns of Newmarket and Aurora. CYFS operates under the direction of a six-member Joint Council Committee made up of three members from each of the Town Councils. The Joint Council Committee provides and administers a borderless, single-tier of fire protection and prevention services throughout both towns in accordance with the Consolidated Fire Services Agreement and the Fire Protection and Prevention Act. Visit cyfs.ca for more information.