Honouring a Legacy: Station 4-1 Renamed the Sam Rippey Fire Station
In a heartfelt ceremony on July 17, 2025, Central York Fire Services (CYFS) officially renamed Station 4-1 in Newmarket to the Sam Rippey Fire Station, paying tribute to a man whose legacy helped shape modern fire services in our community.
Surrounded by past and present members of the fire service, community leaders, and members of the Rippey family, the event celebrated the extraordinary career and enduring impact of Chief Sam Rippey Newmarket’s first full-time firefighter and a pioneer in fire prevention and public safety.
A Legacy of Firsts
Chief Sam Rippey’s journey with the fire service began in 1964 as a volunteer in the Newmarket Fire Brigade. In 1971, he became the first full-time firefighter in Town history a groundbreaking moment that marked the beginning of a nearly 30-year career dedicated to innovation, education, and service.
By 1978, he was appointed Fire Chief, and under his leadership, the Newmarket Fire Department:
Established the first Fire Prevention Division
Launched a firefighter fitness assessment program—well ahead of its time
Pioneered a regional fire dispatch system, increasing emergency response coordination across northern York Region
“While I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Chief Rippey, I see the profound results of his vision and foresight here at CYFS today," said Fire Chief Rocco Volpe. "I’m grateful to Chief Rippey for creating the Newmarket Fire Department’s original Fire Prevention division and carving a path for what is today a sophisticated and progressive division at CYFS.”
A Community Hero
Chief Rippey was more than a leader in the fire hall—he was a leader in the community. He was known for his integrity, mentorship, and deep commitment to public safety, always placing the well-being of others above all else.
As Newmarket Mayor John Taylor shared during the renaming ceremony,
"Chief Sam Rippey was more than a fire chief, he was the heart of our community for many years. People looked up to him not just because of his rank, but because of his integrity, leadership and dedication to protecting the community. Renaming the station in his honour allows his legacy to inspire future generations."
About the Sam Rippey Fire Station (Station 4-1)
Built in 1991, Station 4-1 now the Sam Rippey Fire Station is located at 984 Gorham Street in Newmarket. The station is home to:
One frontline fire crew
CYFS's Fire Prevention and Public Education Division, a fitting nod to Chief Rippey’s legacy
The station continues to serve as a cornerstone of community safety, innovation, and service a legacy that Chief Rippey helped build from the ground up.
Honouring a Visionary
In a quote from Central York Fire Service Joint Council Chair Kelly Broome’s original remarks during the ceremony:
"Chief Rippey wasn’t just ahead of his time—he built the roadmap. He understood that prevention saves lives, that education empowers communities, and that a healthy firefighter is a strong firefighter. His legacy lives on not only in the station that now bears his name, but in the values CYFS carries forward each day."
The renaming of Station 4-1 to the Sam Rippey Fire Station is more than a ceremonial gesture—it’s a powerful reminder that vision, service, and community leadership leave a lasting mark.
Thank you, Chief Rippey, for your unwavering dedication. Your legacy continues to protect and inspire.
