Education

As the public walked around they participated in activities at our many displays and learned about all sections of our departments. Residents were assisted by staff and encouraged to climb into the maintenance vehicles, honk horns, try out the large steering wheels or play with the controls. Children could paint tree disks (recycled wood products) at the forestry station, put stickers on a recyclable bag at the waste management booth, have their faces painted, make a necklace or bracelet at the transit display and take part in the water-saving activities.

• As Emergency Medical Services (EMS) joined us as part of EMS Week, the public was able to witness CPR demonstrations and view a fully-stocked ambulance.

• Since York Regional Police are located at the same location as our venue, they also participated with their Traffic Safety Truck and historical police vehicles. This gave residents an opportunity to speak with both our staff and the police about how we partner to ensure their safety on our roads.

• York Region Transit joined the Open House in full force. Residents had the opportunity to view a Mobility Plus (special needs) bus, take a ride on Viva (rapid transit) or a York Regional Transit (conventional) bus. The children were delighted to see Toby, our remote controlled talking bus.

• Tours of our facilities were offered.  People could choose to ride the Viva bus to the Transit Center and be driven through the bus wash or they could travel on a conventional bus to the Recycling Center and tour the facility.  Every excursion had a tour-guide aboard to explain our services and answer questions.

• Our staff really enjoyed sharing with the public what they do and how important their jobs are to the Region.