Markham Fire & Emergency Services Launches North America’s First Cutting-Edge Auxiliary “DRAGO” Units to Enhance Emergency Response

MARKHAM, ON – October 21, 2025 – The City of Markham is proud to announce the Markham Fire & Emergency Services’ successful deployment of two state-of-the-art auxiliary firefighting units, known as “DRAGO” units, as part of its commitment to modernize fire service delivery.

At 7.3 metres in length, each auxiliary unit is a nimble, high-performance support vehicle packed with advanced firefighting tools and capabilities not typically found on traditional fire apparatus. The units can also be positioned where standard fire trucks cannot go such as tight spaces and uneven terrain. These units bring cutting-edge technology and specialized equipment directly to emergency scenes, which will meet the growing demands of an ever-changing firefighting landscape.

Modern home and building construction methods demand advanced firefighting tools and equipment, grounded in science and research. Traditional best practices that served for decades are no longer sufficient, as fires now often reach peak danger levels much faster, typically just as firefighters arrive, whereas in the past, crews could begin suppression efforts before the fire escalated.

“Safety First is the guiding principle we live by. The DRAGO unit gives our firefighters the capability to extinguish fires from the moment they arrive on the scene. This cutting-edge solution provides greater safety for firefighters and our community,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “I issued a call to action to modernize our fire service and these auxiliary units are a powerful example of how innovation is driving our progress while achieving value for taxpayers' dollars.”

“We are thankful for the support of Mayor and Council to consider alternative ways to meet the challenges of modern firefighting in a growing modern city,” said Markham Fire Chief, Chris Nearing. “Providing our firefighters with the best education, training and firefighting equipment, not only protects our community, but also those who protect Markham.”

The DRAGO units have several key features including ultra-high pressure hose lines for fast and efficient fire attacks, a high-powered ventilation fan to clear smoke and toxins from large areas, and is also equipped with firefighter foam and its own 45,000 watt generator to power emergency lighting and equipment.

Markham fire crews underwent comprehensive training before the vehicles were put into operation. Since entering full-time service, the DRAGO units have successfully been deployed in three structure fires and one hazardous materials incident proving its value in enhancing safety and efficiency during real-world operations.

By prioritizing proactive measures, such as a focus on hands-on training, comprehensive post-event analysis, targeted public education strategies and fire prevention inspections, Markham has continually achieved one of the lowest fire occurrence rates in the GTHA.
 

(From left to right) Councillor Ward 1 Keith Irish, Councillor Ward 2 Ritch Lau, Councillor Ward 7 Nimisha Patel, Councillor Ward 3 Reid McAlpine, Deputy Mayor Michael Chan, Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Regional Councillor Jim Jones, Regional Councillor Alan Ho, Fire Chief Chris Nearing, Councillor Ward 6 Amanda Yeung Collucci, Deputy Fire Chief Robert Garland, Councillor Ward 8 Isa Lee, Councillor Ward 4 Karen Rea, and Deputy Fire Chief Ryan Best at the Markham Civic Centre on Oct. 21, 2025.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
At mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:  
media@markham.ca. 

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with over 370,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 corporate head offices and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy.

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