The Town of Brownsburg-Chatham celebrated the opening of its new Caserne 40 fire station on Saturday, October 10, marking the completion of a $6.9-million investment in local fire protection and emergency response. The fire station is located at 535 rue des Érables.

Steve Gomes, director of the town’s Fire and Civil Security Department, welcomed attendees before introducing Mayor Kévin Maurice to deliver his remarks.

Steve Gomes, director of the town’s Fire and Civil Security Department. Photo: Philip Oddi.

“It’s a very special day for us here at the station. We are happy to officially open it and share it with all of you, and we are glad that you are all here,” Gomes said.

The ceremony included a flag-raising and the presentation of service medals recognizing firefighters for five, 10, and 20 years of service. Five firefighters also received Fire Services Exemplary Service Medals recognizing 20 years of service. The accompanying certificates bear the signature of former Canadian Governor General Julie Payette, who served from 2017 to 2021.

Firefighter Zachary Rivard (left) shakes the hand of Mayor Kévin Maurice (right) while accepting his five-year recognition medal and certificate. Photo: Philip Oddi.

Maurice said the new facility reflects the municipality’s commitment to protecting a growing population and ensuring firefighters have the resources they need to respond to emergencies.

“It is with great pride that we officially open Caserne 40, a modern facility that represents our collective commitment to safety, protection, and the well-being of our residents,” Maurice said.

The project received $4.7 million in funding from the Government of Québec, with the municipality contributing the remaining $2.2 million.

Maurice said continued residential development and population growth have created new demands on emergency services, including the need to assist neighbouring municipalities during major incidents.

The new facility includes living quarters for firefighters working around the clock, as well as a training area where firefighters can develop their skills. The station is also intended to serve as a strategic location for emergency response and civil security operations in Argenteuil.

Following the ceremony, firefighters invited residents and guests to tour the new station and explore the equipment used in their day-to-day work.

Photos by Philip Oddi: