Fire prevention team receives recognition for community impact and service

May 9, 2024, East Gwillimbury, Ont. — East Gwillimbury’s Fire and Emergency Services’ Fire Prevention team was selected as the recipient of the Intercultural Dialogue Institute’s Greater Toronto Area Public Heroes award for their altruism and outstanding dedication and commitment to maintaining a safe community.

This award highlights the team’s community impact which is reflected in all they do on and off the job, the city reported in a press release. Members of the team include Shawna Davidson, Kalai Walton, Derek Hill, and Nicole Spragg.

The statement highlighted the department’s dedication to go above and beyond the call of duty, providing programs, initiatives, and events that ensure residents of all ages remain safe, informed, and prepared.

Additionally, each member of the team was praised for their active involvement in their community outside of the service, with contributions including coaching local sports teams, volunteering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Cancer Society, lending a hand at Mount Albert Sports Day, or participating in the York Regional Police annual dragon boat races.

The press release highlighted the implementation of public education programs like the door-to-door Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm program, Storytime with Sparky, Fire Chief for a Day, annual Fire Prevention Open House, visits at Town events, and the Community Risk Assessment, showcasing an engaging community-focused approach to public education.

“We are incredibly proud of our Fire Prevention team for their continued service and commitment to educating residents of East Gwillimbury,” said Mayor Virginia Hackson in a statement. “This award showcases their hard work, dedication, and the positive impact they have made in enhancing fire safety and prevention and their commitment to giving back to the community through their various volunteering efforts.”

The IDI is a Vaughan-based organization seeks to advance social cohesion through personal interaction, respect, and mutual understanding among individuals from various cultures and faiths.