Combining fire Station aspects with co-working through digital solutions
About this good practice
The Fire Station Lahnau is a pioneering project that unites three localities to establish a centralized, smart firefighting hub. This approach enhances operational efficiency, resource sharing, and improves accessibility for volunteers.
A feature of the station is the integration of coworking spaces for volunteers, acknowledging the shift towards remote work and long commutes. These flexible spaces allow volunteers to stay professionally engaged while being available for deployment during emergencies. This design strengthens local firefighting readiness and fosters community resilience, modernizing volunteer-based emergency services.
The station not only accommodates the firefighting unit but also includes space for the children’s and youth fire brigades. The facility incorporates smart digital technologies, such as a secure central control system, digital screens for mission management, and a modern command center for effective coordination.
The coworking spaces, adapted from traditionally used meeting and planning rooms, optimize underused areas during daytime hours. Equipped with digital infrastructure, they provide a flexible environment for remote work, allowing volunteers to stay connected while remaining on call. This integration of modern work models with community safety needs demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that boosts both efficiency and resilience, ensuring the fire station can continue to serve the community effectively.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
With an investment of approximately €9 million, the new facility required resources such as local planners and volunteers, who provided essential support. The construction was organized by the municipality.
The projects was mainly financed by the municipalities as well as state funding.
Evidence of success
The Fire Station Lahnau has improved emergency readiness and crisis management, enhancing volunteer availability. Media attention has also attracted new volunteers of all ages, strengthening the local volunteer base and ensuring the sustainability of firefighting services. This initiative has modernized volunteer-based emergency services, fostering stronger community engagement and preparedness.
Potential for learning or transfer
The Fire Station Lahnau serves as a model for intermunicipal cooperation and knowledge transfer to other communities. Its innovative design and use of coworking spaces for volunteers demonstrate new ways of integrating modern work patterns with emergency services.
By sharing resources and expertise between local municipalities, the project promotes collaboration and efficiency in managing firefighting services. The inclusion of various community groups, including children's and youth brigades, further strengthens volunteer engagement, ensuring the long-term sustainability of local emergency services.
The Fire Station Lahnau also encourages new ways of thinking about traditional tasks, offering valuable insights into optimizing standard operations with smart solutions. This progressive model can be adapted by other communities, helping them modernize and improve the effectiveness of their own firefighting services while enhancing community resilience.
Further information
Good practice owner
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