A grade six student from Chris Hadfield Public School, Colin Lepre, has been chosen as the 2024 Whitby Junior Fire Chief.
Colin impressed with his exceptional fire safety knowledge, active participation, and willingness to help his peers during this year’s Junior Firefighter Summer Camp, said a town statement.
Colin’s accomplishment was celebrated with a special school presentation followed by a fire truck ride to Whitby Fire Station #5. His first day on Thursday as Junior Fire Chief was packed with learning.
Colin received firsthand experience in extinguishing vehicle fires, auto extrication techniques, and the responsibilities of a Fire Chief. He even had the thrilling opportunity to lead a mock emergency scenario and explore various roles within the fire service.
Throughout the next year, Colin will join Whitby firefighters at community events, deepening his understanding of fire safety and community engagement.
The Junior Fire Chief for the Year Contest is a joint initiative between the Durham District School Board and is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of Metro Inc. and McDonald’s Whitby.
“Colin embodies the qualities we seek in a Junior Fire Chief,” stated Whitby Fire Chief Michael Hickey. “His unwavering commitment to fire safety and his enthusiasm for learning make him an outstanding candidate for this position. We are excited to welcome him to our team for the upcoming year.”
“Being selected as the Junior Whitby Fire Chief is a real honour and I look forward to learning alongside the Whitby Fire Department this year,” said Colin Lepre, the newly appointed Junior Fire Chief.
To register for Junior Fire Summer Camp, visit whitby.ca/Active this April. For more information about Whitby Fire, visit whitby.ca/Fire.