In Quarters: Central Jackson County, MO, Fire Protection District Station 6

This facility received the Satellite Gold award in the 2024 Firehouse Station Design Awards. Find the full list of winners here.

The Central Jackson County Fire Protection District is tasked with serving more than 80,000 residents around the communities of Blue Springs, Grain Valley and Lake Tapawingo. It recently expanded its operations with the opening of a new fire station in Blue Springs.

Station 6 provides full-service fire and EMS response, technical rescue, and fire and life-safety education for the communities that it serves. It also provides fire and EMS training for members.

Dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of first responders, Station 6 embodies advances in contemporary station design. By prioritizing occupational health through strict contamination control, the facility manages exposure to harmful chemicals through careful spatial organization.

The building is organized into distinct hazard zones, which are classified by levels of carcinogen exposure. High-hazard zones of the building, including the four-bay, double-deep, drive-through apparatus bay (which accommodates heavy rescue, an SCBA room, a decontamination area and gear storage areas), are designed to contain the highest risks. Moderate-hazard transition zones function as buffers, to limit the transmission of and exposure to harmful carcinogens. Vestibules that have hand-wash sinks, walk-off mats and nearby shower rooms separate high-hazard zones from the station’s living quarters. Low hazard zones, which contain the station’s living spaces, provide a safe, 24-hour home for firefighters.

The living quarters are designed to promote member mental health and well-being. Communal dining and gathering spaces encourage fellowship, socialization and education. Privacy, reflection and sleep equity are emphasized in the inclusive restrooms, individual sleeping quarters, directaccess shift lockers and separate captain’s suite.

Station 6 exemplifies the integration of modern design and occupational health principles. By the project team’s implementation of careful contamination control, the Station 6 facility helps to protect firefighters from cancer and other serious illnesses that can result from occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals. The innovative approach that was applied enhances the operational efficiency of the fire station and sets a new standard for future fire
station designs for the fire protection district.

Architect/Firm Name: sfs architecture