Fire station replaced to serve firefighters and EMTs serving upper Deer Valley and Empire Canyon
I’m a guy who really likes vehicles, and as any little boy will tell you, fire engines are about as cool as vehicles get. I was thrilled when I got the call to photograph new Station 34 for the Park City Fire District designed by Think Architecture. A beautiful autumn day in the mountains and engines, trucks, and firefighters—that’s about as good a day taking pictures as it gets. I’ll add a note that firefighters and EMTs have a special place in my heart, as their quick and decisive actions saved the life of someone very dear to me.
In this view, the crew rolled up the doors so you can see the fire truck and fire engine. I learned there is a difference between trucks and engines. Engines carry hoses, pumps, and water in a self-contained tank to immediately begin fire suppression; trucks emphasize rescue and carry ventilation and rescue equipment, including hydraulic aerial ladders.
The entry on the right has generous windows for natural light.
In addition to the natural light in the entry and stairway, the bright white walls reflect and brighten the space.
Crews live at the station through multi-day shifts. When the shift is over another crew moves in. The station provides a home-like environment for communal meal preparation and dining. The sliding glass opens to a deck for grilling, dining, and sitting. The new station comprises approximately 6,000 square feet, and approximately half is for living and half is for equipment.
The lounge area doubles as a training space. To the left is a long desk with electronics and communication equipment.
The crew has a rigorous fitness routine prescribed, and the station provides a well-equipped center for cardio and weight training.
Along this hallway are small private bedrooms and a communal bathroom. And, true to my childhood picture books, there is a brass pole that the firefighters slide down directly to the engines and trucks! Not a second is spared when they get a call.
I felt the longevity of my career when I photographed this station as I had made photos of the building that it replaced when that building was new. It was a great day at the fire station, and I truly feel my safety is in good hands after spending a day with the station crew.
See more galleries from Scot Zimmerman.
