MASON, Ohio --
Mason is booming, but all those new residents are putting a strain on the citys fire protection, and officials there agreed this week to build three new fire stations.
"We always want more people and more trucks (because) we don't want to see your house catch fire and us not get their quick enough," said firefighter Mark Gerano.
The suburban fire departments staffing and response time have been scrutinized since a home was destroyed by fire in May 2005, and four subsequent studies recommended additional training, stations and full-time firefighters.
The growing city of 30,000 people currently has two fire stations, but the approved plan would add three new facilities that would create a minimum response time of six minutes for about 90 percent of Mason.
Officials will consider building the new stations near Mason-Montgomery and Bethany roads, Western Row and Tylersville roads, and Snider Road and state Route 42.
Mason officials will consider entering an agreement allowing firefighters to team up with nearby Deerfield Township, which is also enduring some growing pains.
"What we're talking about is backing each other up with first response, with each other's jurisdiction," said Lee Spiedel, Deerfield Township trustee.
Such an arrangement might not be necessary, firefighters said.
"We'll always need mutual aid, of course, (but) if you add staffing and equipment you won't need other people as much," Germano said.
Deerfield Township already has three fire stations, but officials said that without a working agreement with Mason the township might need a fourth in a few years.
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