New fire station inaugurated in Kajaani improves response times for rescue operations

New fire station facilities in Kajaani will improve response times for rescue operations by over a minute, according to Juha Saario, head of the Kainuu rescue services. He emphasized that this enhancement will allow residents to receive assistance more quickly, stating, “Every second counts when someone is in distress.”

The inauguration of the new fire station and city depot in Vimpelinlaakso took place on October 10, as part of the Kajaani Fire Brigade’s 100-year anniversary celebrations. Saario noted that the modern facilities will greatly facilitate the practical work of rescue services. The previous station, built nearly 100 years ago, was originally designed for horse-drawn vehicles.

The ceremony featured a parade led by a 1932 T-Ford fire truck that was converted for firefighting use and operated until the 1960s. Fire service personnel have been using temporary accommodations in Kajaani for over twenty years, eventually leading to poor conditions. Saario highlighted that the new station’s contemporary and functional spaces prioritize health and safety.

Shared vehicle cleaning and repair facilities with the city depot are expected to reduce operational costs. “The budget constraints within the welfare area require that we seek synergy and consolidate spaces,” Saario stated, adding that they are currently evaluating the possibility of integrating emergency medical services within the fire station to optimize space usage.

Kimmo Kohvakka, the Director General of Rescue Services at the Ministry of the Interior, regards the new fire station as a significant asset to both Kainuu’s safety and Finland’s broader rescue system. He emphasized the importance of this investment, especially during challenging economic times, noting that such a base can serve effectively for decades. Other municipalities in Kainuu also face urgent repairs for outdated rescue facilities, with Kuhmo and Paltamo next on the priority list for updates.