Modernization for more security: Bergheim fire department celebrates new construction!

Modernization for more security: Bergheim fire department celebrates new construction!

On May 23, 2025, the expansion of the Bergheim fire and rescue station on Kölnerstraße in Bergheim-Kenten was ceremoniously completed. The construction period extended for around two years, and investment costs were around 7.15 million euros. Mayor Volker Mießeler, who completed the inauguration, emphasized the importance of this modern infrastructure for the security of the citizens.

The new building comprises a base area of ​​approx. 1,400 square meters and is two -storey. It connects directly to the existing building built in 2007. On the ground floor, a hall with five parking spaces for fire engines as well as generous changing areas for women and men and a respiratory protection workshop was created. This workshop has been operated independently since the beginning of the year after the respiratory protection equipment station was trained during the construction period.

modern equipment and sustainable construction

On the upper floor of the new building there are common rooms, a modern industrial kitchen with a dining area, 14 relaxation rooms as well as sanitary rooms and technology zones. Particularly noteworthy is the glazed bridge that connects the new building to the existing building. The structural design attaches great importance to sustainability and durability: the roofs are greened and equipped with a photovoltaic system, while high -quality, natural building materials were used.

In addition, the forecourt in front of the vehicle gates was expanded to improve the operational logistics. Around 200 employees are currently working in shift and daily service at the Bergheim fire department, whereby the old existing building only offered space for half of the firefighters. Already at the end of the 2010s there were initial extensions to set up larger changing rooms.

challenges from climate change

The fire brigade is not only faced with structural challenges. In a survey from 2021, in which 1,750 firefighters took part, 76 percent stated that they do overtime. The average working time scope is 48 hours a week, with many of the firefighters confronted with personnel deficiency and the resulting security concerns. The Situation is particularly critical in operations where 22 percent of the respondents provide that the necessary security troop can often not be filled.

The increase in operations due to climate change that brings an increased risk of fire is another challenge. High temperatures, extremely hot days as well as wind fluctuations and low humidity contribute to the risk, especially for vegetation and forest fires. Therefore, the expansion of the fire and rescue station is of central importance in order to meet the increased requirements and to ensure effective danger for citizens.

For more information on the structural details and the importance of the new extension, read more at Fireworld , City-news as well as the challenges through climate change on Energie-Klimaschutz .