A $66 million, 10-year fire station renovation program in Mississauga that was unanimously approved later drew some criticism at a city council meeting, reports Insauga.

The program commits to repair aging infrastructure and provide interior renovations and structural additions at the stations, some of which have not been upgraded in more than 30 years. Eleven of the stations have asbestos-containing materials; all 17 require upgrades to meet accessibility requirements for female staff. When the last fire station was built in 2003 there were eight female firefighters in Mississauga. There are now 39. One station needs an addition to accommodate a second fire truck.

All work will be performed over the next decade as part of the fire and emergency services 10-year capital plan. In 2017 Council approved a separate $22.4 million fund over five years to support the replacement of aging front line fire trucks and associated equipment.

The Bedfordale (Australia) Bush Fire Brigade (BBFB) just officially opened its new, $1.7 million volunteer fire station.

Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby joined Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM and City of Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield to open the station, which will enhance training opportunities for BBFB as it prepares for the next bushfire season. In addition, it can act as an incident control center during major operations.

Located on Admiral Road, the new station features four vehicle bays, improved training and communications facilities, and has been built proactive to cater for growing personnel numbers and additional vehicles.

The facility is larger than BBFB’s former headquarters of more than 35 years. Its modern amenities and expanded outdoor areas aim to enable BBFB to host a range of community events.

The State Government supported the construction of the facility with a $372,000 Emergency Services Levy grant and $51,000 for water tanks as part of the Western Australia Recovery Plan, while the City of Armadale contributed $1.2 million and BBFB volunteers fundraised more than $54,000.

“Today marks a significant milestone for the Bedfordale Bush Fire Brigade and one that recognizes the incredible work volunteer firefighters do for Western Australia,” says Whitby. “It is vital our emergency services volunteers have facilities that enable them to train, build and maintain skills as they respond to emergency incidents that could potentially threaten lives and property.

“Through the Emergency Services Levy, the Government is investing in our volunteer brigades, giving them the equipment and infrastructure required to help keep communities safe.”

Environmentally friendly materials, a community-focused design, and renewable energy combine in Tsha’thoñswatha’, the Onondaga Nation’s (NY) new fire station, reports Inhabitat.com.

Tsha’thoñswatha’ replaces an “old, corroded” firehouse and adds a community hall in Onondaga County.

It was designed by Syracuse-based Ashley McGraw Architects with collaboration from the community to meet net-zero energy standards. It was constructed by local community members.