The fire station at Eelde airport has been in full use for a few weeks now, but was officially opened today. And according to the airport fire brigade, it was about time, because the old barracks had not met the requirements for twenty years.
Mayor Marcel Thijsen of Tynaarlo presses a red button with his hand, after which the roller doors of the exit hall open and three large, yellow fire trucks appear.
With loud sirens and high speeds, these so-called crash tenders show how quickly the firefighters can respond to accidents at Groningen Airport Eelde. “Because we have to be able to be anywhere at the airport within three minutes,” explains airport director Meiltje de Groot.
In the new barracks, these vehicles can be stored under a roof. And that is not the only advantage of the new accommodation, says team chief Jeroen Kregel. “This new building gives us many options, such as flue gas discharge in the workshop,” says the firefighter. A larger workshop and instruction room, its own sports hall and a sliding pole can also be found in the room.
“I am happy that there is finally a safe working environment for the six firefighters, because for a long time there were unacceptable working conditions for them,” says mayor Thijsen. “Groningen Airport Eelde now has a fire station for the future. The entire North will benefit from this.”
De Groot agrees. “We are grateful and very happy with the new barracks, despite the fact that it has taken so long.”