Modern Fire Station Design

Design of fire stations has evolved extensively in the past decade. A modern fire station needs to focus on operational efficiencies as well as the health and welfare of firefighters.

Robert Robicsek, AIA, Principal, Civic Studio Leader | January 2025

While each fire department is faced with similar challenges, each community is unique and the design approach must take that into consideration. NFPA 1500 is the standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellness Program and it impacts fire station design in areas including cancer prevention, firefighter fitness and creating spaces where firefighters can unwind from the stresses of the job. Lavallee Brensinger Architects is well versed with the application of these NFPA guidelines in the planning and design of modern fire stations. Key areas of fire station design includes the following spaces and functions:

Decontamination

Firefighter exposure to toxins and cancer prevention is a hot topic that doesn’t just focus on the fireground, but involves aspects of fire station design and use. We address these issues in detail during the fire station design process.

Separation

Air locks separating the areas between the living space and apparatus bay, incorporating positive-pressure airflow or an air curtain can help remove contaminants in the apparatus bays from working and living spaces.

Firefighter Health

The on-call nature of firefighting, and nighttime emergency calls can result in stress, sleep deprivation, and cardiac events which are a major contributor to firefighter deaths. Stress can be reduced through lighting, acoustics, colors, and other design decisions.

Fitness

Provide fitness space to address the department’s fitness programs and requirements. Where possible link fitness spaces with secure outdoor areas.

Living Quarters

Design of living quarters should take into account the departments gender diversity and be designed for maximum flexibility and adaptability. As volunteer fire stations transition to around-the-clock staffing, departments need to be honest as they plan living spaces that will be used more frequently. Provisions for all of these factors need to be addressed during the programming and planning process.

Safety

The on-campus safety for on-duty firefighters is also an increasing issue and needs to be addressed in the design of the modern fire station. Access to parking areas, outdoor recreation areas, and controlled access to the fire house need to be taken into consideration when planning.

Training

Incorporating areas that allow crews to learn about the latest safety and health programs are essential. Functional learning spaces should include:

• Hands-on training areas – spaces built into the station’s layout including training towers, mock firefighting scenarios, decontamination of equipment and gear used before members return it to service or re-enter the living spaces.
• Decompression spaces – these multi-use spaces can be used to gather for training classes / lectures while also doubling as a place for crews to talk and debrief. Typically, design of these spaces incorporates elements that allow crews to decompress such as, comfortable seating and areas to read or watch television.

 

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About Robert Robicsek