Building for Our Future: The Cloquet Area Fire District Facility Project
Your Support, Our Community, A Safer Tomorrow
Each year, CAFD responds to over 3,400 emergency incidents, ranging from fires and vehicle accidents to life-threatening medical emergencies. Our dedicated team of full-time paid-on-call staff is committed to providing professional, reliable, and efficient responses to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.
Why Change is Necessary
The Cloquet Area Fire Department’s current station has served our community faithfully for decades. However, as the city has grown and emergency response needs have evolved, the limitations of this aging facility have become increasingly apparent. Here’s why we need an upgrade to continue providing top-tier protection and service.
Personnel: Health, Wellness, and Safety Implications
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The current living quarters were designed decades ago when staffing and operational demands were much smaller. They now fail to accommodate the growing needs of today’s firefighters.
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Cramped sleeping areas lack privacy and proper rest environments, which are essential for on-call firefighters who may need to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.
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A lack of modern amenities, such as adequate kitchens, dining spaces, and recreational areas, impacts morale and physical well-being.
Lack of Storage: Not compatible with Daily Operative Functions
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The station lacks sufficient space for storing essential firefighting and rescue equipment.
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Fire trucks and other emergency vehicles are packed tightly into bays, leaving little room for safe maneuvering or easy access during emergencies.
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Personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools are stored in makeshift areas, often exposed to wear and tear that shortens their usable lifespan.
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Outdated storage solutions lead to inefficiencies, such as longer preparation times for calls and increased wear on critical equipment.