Central Jackson County Fire Protection District Fire Station 6

The Central Jackson County Fire Protection District, tasked with serving over 80,000 residents around the communities of Blue Springs, Grain Valley, and Lake Tapawingo, recently expanded their operations with the opening of a new 16,000 square-foot fire station in Blue Springs, Missouri.

Station 6 provides full-service fire and Emergency Medical Service response, fire and life safety education, fire and EMS training, and technical rescue.

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.

SFS organized the building into distinct hazard zones, classified by levels of carcinogen exposure. High hazard zones, including the four bay, double-deep, drive through apparatus bay accommodating heavy rescue, SCBA room, decontamination area, and gear storage areas, are designed to contain the highest risks. Moderate hazard transition zones function as buffers, limiting the transmission of and exposure to harmful carcinogens. Vestibules with 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.

SFS designed the living quarters to promote mental health and well-being. Communal dining and gathering spaces encourage fellowship, socialization, and education, while privacy, reflection, and sleep equity are emphasized in the inclusive restrooms, individual sleeping quarters, direct-access shift lockers, and separate Captain’s suite.

Station 6 exemplifies the integration of modern design and occupational health principles. By implementing careful contamination control, the facility protects firefighters from cancer and other serious illnesses that can result from occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals. This innovative approach not only enhances the operational efficiency of the fire station but also sets a new standard for future fire station designs