A Wichita Fire Station was evacuated over the weekend due to mold concerns in the building.
Station 15, located at Lincoln and Rock Road, was undergoing remediation work. Our partners at 12 News report that ceiling tiles were removed and firefighters reported burning in their eyes, noses and throats. One stated he was unable to sleep and did not feel well, after irritation from dust and potential mold exposure.
Station 15 was evacuated and temporarily closed while more testing is completed. Crews at the station 15 have been reassigned to other locations.
The firefighter's union said the closure will affect response times, impacting residents and businesses in the area. The department has been aware of mold issues for an “extended period.”
A recent inspection showed that 20 of 22 Wichita Fire Stations have mold in the building. Council member Dalton Glasscock called the report alarming, and demanded immediate, transparent action.
City officials say improvements to facilities, including fire stations, have been needed for years, but kept getting delayed due to deferred maintenance.
Mayor Lily Wu called the conditions “unacceptable”, and has contacted the city manager and fire chief to express her concerns.