Volunteer firefighters in Liberec built an atypical fire station

The fire station resembles the entrance to a tunnel in shape; it was designed by architect Vojtěch Šrut, who is a member of the volunteer corps in Krásná Studánka. The construction began last November as part of a cross-border European project; according to Hazi, the old and new buildings cannot be compared. "The original fire station was nearly 70 years old and was completely inadequate, while the new one is a 21st-century building in every aspect," he stated.

The new building is wheelchair accessible on the ground floor. A garage for three fire trucks was created in the front part of the building, while in the rear, firefighters have a meeting room along with amenities, changing rooms, and sanitary facilities. The extension contains a command room, a technical room, and an open gallery above the common room. "We no longer have to deal with hot water or heating, which we previously arranged for with electric heaters, and we finally have more space around the equipment, so we don't have to crowd outside during departures," Hazi added.

The firefighters from Krásná Studánka will acquire a command vehicle and a transport vehicle for nine people thanks to the cross-border project. "We didn't want to acquire new equipment until we had a place to park it. However, we have already gone through the tender process. In a month, we will receive the command vehicle, and in February 2019, we should take over the transport vehicle," Hazi added. The European project titled "4 Cities Saving Across Borders" also includes firefighters from Hrádek nad Nisou and the German towns of Herrnhut and Zittau. Together, they are expected to receive grants of over 63 million crowns.

The volunteer fire brigade in Krásná Studánka is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. It has over 70 members, of which 22 are part of the intervention unit. "The volunteer fire unit from Krásná Studánka belongs to our busiest units, and I am glad that it finally has adequate facilities. Moreover, it is a big plus that the volunteer firefighters have essentially tailored their new fire station to their needs," said Liberec's mayor Tibor Batthyány (former ANO).