Oshawa Safe Havens now open to support individuals in crisis

To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25, the City of Oshawa is launching the community’s first Safe Havens at Fire Stations 1, 3, 5 and 6.

Safe Havens are secure, welcoming spaces inside fire stations that offer immediate safety, temporary refuge and connection to emergency and community services for anyone in crisis. 

Fire stations are ideal for this role thanks to their 24/7 staffing, accessibility, and strong community trust. Hosting Safe Havens is one more way Oshawa Fire Services extends its care beyond emergency response to help protect the city’s most vulnerable residents.

What Safe Havens offer:

A safe place anytime: People facing domestic violence, young people in crises, or those experiencing mental health emergencies can go to a participating fire station at any time for immediate help and a secure place to connect with further support.

Fast connections to services: Fire crews can quickly contact police, paramedics, or local crisis agencies, ensuring that no one has to face a crisis alone.

Easy to find and recognize: Each Safe Haven location is clearly marked with signage and lighting so those in need can easily spot a safe place.

Community collaboration: The program supports regional efforts to address gender-based violence, at risk youth, and mental health, strengthening community safety across Oshawa.

About Oshawa Fire Services

The City of Oshawa is committed to the safety of its community members through significant financial investment in Oshawa Fire Services and the development of the Oshawa Fire Master Plan.

Six fire halls are strategically located throughout the city allowing Oshawa Fire Services to serve the entire community.

For more information about Oshawa Fire Services and fire prevention, visit oshawa.ca/Fire or follow @OshawaFire on X.

Quotes:

“Safe Havens are more than a welcoming and secure space,” said Mayor Dan Carter. “They send a powerful message that no one in our community has to face crisis alone. We’re ensuring that care, compassion, and safety are available exactly when and where people need them most.”

“Everyone deserves a safe place to turn to in moments of danger or distress,” said Councillor Brian Nicholson, Chair, Safety and Facilities Services Committee. “By opening Safe Havens in our fire stations, we’re offering a vital lifeline, a trusted space where help is always within reach.”

“With intimate partner violence now declared an epidemic in many Ontario communities, Safe Havens offer a much-needed bridge between crisis and care,” said Oshawa Fire Chief Stephen Barkwell. “Our firefighters are proud to play a role in helping people find safety when they are at their most vulnerable.”