Improving Fire Station Turnout Time Through Discrete-Event Simulation
Abstract
The fire station is a critical aspect of the emergency response system, yet the role fire station design plays during an emergency response is rarely studied. This research applies the facility layout problem through the use of discrete-event simulation to both improve existing fire stations and to find optimal designs for new fire station construction. The discrete-event simulation model describes the effectiveness of a fire station by measuring and predicting turnout time. This research found a potential 28.85 percent reduction in turnout time for a case study fire station through facility layout improvement methods and provides a design tool that predicts fire station turnout time for facility layout construction methods. Applying this research could positively impact the nation's emergency response system and reduce the risk of losing life, limb, and property to communities served by improved fire stations.