A Firefighter’s Perspective on the New Florissant Fire District Stations

FV Firehouse   pg 1

The new firehouse at 661 St. Ferdinand will have an Open House during the Fall Festival on Sunday, Oct. 11,  noon-4 p.m.

By Rick Ruhmann,

Deputy Chief (Florissant Valley  Fire Protection District)

Looking out my new dorm window on the first night  of  my shift in our new station I realized what a great impact these new buildings would have on our community.

From the beginning we were very concerned about the architecture of all three buildings so they would fit the specific neighborhoods and still be very modern and functional for our business.  The short time we have been in the buildings I think we have been successful.

It appears the neighbors are pleased with the positive comments we have received along with the occasional questions like “why is our House 1 on 661 St. Ferdinand so big?”  We remind them that it is also our Administration building, which houses several offices, the board room and training center.

Some of the benefits of the new buildings were evident immediately.  The fact that not too many years ago we began to directly provide Emergency Medical Service. That required a larger workforce that meant tight quarters in building that were built over 60 years ago. All three of the  new fire  stations together accommodate more people and equipment with room to grow.

The new locations also provide better access to main thoroughfares for better response times while attempting to keep a noise buffer for neighbors.

There is also a new attitude within the firehouses because we all appreciate a better environment to work in.  Thanks to all our residents for providing us the buildings and equipment to provide you what we think is one of the best Fire and Emergency Medical Services in one of the busiest districts in Saint Louis County.

An Open House for Firehouse 1/Administration Building, 661 St. Ferdinand will be held during the Fall Festival on Sunday, Oct. 11 from noon to 4 p.m.  The Open House for Firehouse #2, 1925 Pohlman will be on Saturday, Oct. 17  from 1-3 p.m.

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