Fire station upgrade

Omarama's fire station is being earthquake strengthened and upgraded to house new-generation appliances and provide a better working environment for volunteers.

Fire Service Otago-Southland property co-ordinator Stephen Hill said yesterday the building was being extended by 6m at the front and the doors enlarged.

An equipment wash area, storage for protective clothing, a shower and an upgraded office were also being included in the work.

Steel, concrete blocks and plywood were being used to earthquake strengthen the building.

The work began about three weeks ago and is expected to take about two months.

In the meantime, it was ''business as usual'', Omarama Chief Fire Officer Howard Williams said.