Working with our collaborative partners, we have studies underway in Southbridge, MA, and Brunswick, ME. The study phase of a project answers essential questions and sets the stage for next steps when planning a new station, renovation, or determining the best site.
Southbridge, MA
We are partnering with Kaestle Boos Associates to complete programming, and schematic plans and elevations for replacing the fire department's 1890's fire headquarters. Included is an advanced design for handling decontamination as shown below:
Southbridge Decon Pathway
Brunswick, ME
Working with WBRC Architects & Engineers of Bangor, we are designing a new fire headquarters with an in-town site that will serve this community on the coast of Maine that is the home of Bowdoin College.
Brunswick Site Plan
Trumbull, CT
Construction continues on the new Long Hill Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 2. The station is a design-build project with Downes Construction of New Britain, CT. The camera is up at the site so you can watch the time-lapse photos of progress.
Take another look and see the progress taking place. Masonry and stud walls are up. Work continues on the lower level, as well.
From this ...
To this ...
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MRSA - A Striking Possibility
by Richard Barlette & Mitchell Associates
MRSA under the Microscope - Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
What is
MRSA, what is the impact if infected, why does it like to live in and around firefighters, and how can the design of a fire station help to control its spread?
MRSA is a potentially dangerous type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics and can survive on hard surfaces for several days to several weeks. If undiagnosed or left untreated, it can rapidly progress into a widespread infection that's dangerous and difficult to treat.
Because firefighters and emergency medical providers are working out among the community and are in frequent contact with high risk populations, they can easily transport infectious microbes back to the fire station on their hands, clothing, PPE and even apparatus.
Mitchell Associates takes the time to research manufacturer's antimicrobial claims and carefully selects materials, construction details, and furniture designs that minimize the opportunities for these pathogens and pests to prosper in the station.
Visit our website to read the article, MRSA in the Fire Station - A Striking Possibility, by Mitchell Associates consultant Richard Barlette to find out what our research says about MRSA and building design & materials.
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We had a great time at the Turning Stone Resort at the
New York Association of Fire Chiefs' Fire EXPO. We got to catch up with friends and meet some new folks. We're back on the road -
