VIDEO: Mental Health Awareness month kicks off this week, which is the same time a brand new fire station opens to the public in Burnsville. It's designed to prioritize the wellbeing of firefighters and paramedics.
From a meditation garden to a wellness room, there are many features that promote relaxation.
There are also decontamination zones to separate firefighters from the chemicals that put them at a risk that Burnsville Assistance Chief Terry Ritchie says is three times higher than other people to get cancer. "Itâs extremely important after a fire that we get these guys showered and get that dirty gear off as quick as possible," said Ritchie. "Weâre saving our own lives."
The new station is divided into three contamination zones to segregate dirty equipment and gear recently used on a call from gear that is in the process of decontamination and the fully clean area.
