Let’s Welcome Station 117 to the Neighborwoods!

Station 117 has been in the works for nearly a decade and guess what? It’s officially open, right here in Tehaleh. Sirens, shiny trucks, the larger-than-life heroes…there’s something inherently inspiring about a fire station and it can conjure up all those feelings of being a kid at the local parade. If you’re a cat-owner whose mischievous cats keep climbing to the top of Douglas Firs, or a parent who loves to take the kids to visit touch-a-truck events, you’re likely already relieved at the sight of Tehaleh’s very own fire trucks in the neighborhood.

And it’s a real, grown-up milestone for the community: faster emergency response, increased safety, and a stronger bond between first responders and the people they serve.

We got in touch with East Pierce Fire & Rescue Fire Chief, Jon Parkinson, for an enlightening Q&A to help the community get to know their newest neighbors.

Why Station 117 Matters for Tehaleh

Q: What does it mean for Tehaleh to finally have its own fire station?

A: It means a lot. For the first time, there’s a full-time fire crew based right here in the neighborhood. That means faster response times, greater reliability, and a deeper connection between first responders and the people they serve.

These firefighters aren’t just working in Tehaleh. They get to become part of the community.

Q: Why was now the right time to build the station?

A: Station 117 has been part of East Pierce Fire & Rescue’s long-term plan for Tehaleh since the early days of development. In 2018, it became official when voters approved a bond that helped fund future public safety infrastructure across the district.

Since then, Tehaleh has continued to grow, with more families, more homes, and more calls for service. Opening the station in 2025 was about timing that growth just right. It’s here now because Tehaleh is ready for it, and we’re proud to be part of the next chapter.

Q: How will Station 117 make Tehaleh safer?

A: Before Station 117 opened, emergency crews had to respond from outside the neighborhood, which could mean longer wait times when every minute counts. As Tehaleh grew, so did the need for faster, more reliable coverage right here in the community.

Now, help is coming from just down the road. Whether it’s a house fire, a medical emergency, or wildfire season, having a dedicated crew based in Tehaleh means quicker response and peace of mind for the families who live here.

Q: How is the station designed to grow with the community?

A: Tehaleh is still growing, and Station 117 was built with that in mind. The station has space for more firefighters or equipment in the future, and it was designed to blend into the neighborhood while handling the area’s wildfire risks.

This is a station built not just for today, but for the long haul.

Meet Your Firefighters

Q: Can you tell us about the crew?

A: The team at Station 117 includes both experienced firefighters and newer team members. All are trained in fire response and emergency medical care. Each shift includes at least one paramedic, with the rest of the crew certified at the EMT level.

Captain Sanders, Lieutenants Orcutt and Dedge, each lead a shift and bring steady leadership, years of experience, and a shared commitment to the community. The crew takes great pride in building strong connections and setting the tone for what it means to serve in Tehaleh.

Q: How many firefighters are assigned full-time to Station 117?

A: You’ll usually see three full-time firefighters assigned to Station 117 each day, and sometimes a fourth. That’s because we often have probationary firefighters assigned to the station as part of their hands-on training. They work alongside the crew to gain real-world experience and complete required evaluations.

Q: What types of emergencies do crews respond to most often?

A: Most of our calls are medical: things like chest pain, allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or injuries from falls. That’s true across the district, and Tehaleh is no exception.

We also prepare for wildfire season, especially with so many forested trails and wooded areas nearby. That’s another reason why having a local crew makes a real difference.

Q: What makes this station or crew unique?

A: One of the things that sets Station 117 apart is the Firewise demonstration garden right out front. It’s more than just landscaping. It’s a teaching tool, designed to show how small changes around your home can reduce wildfire risk.

This crew is also the first to ever call Station 117 home. They’ll have rare chance to help shape the culture from the very beginning, and that brings a real sense of ownership and pride to the work.

Tips for Staying Safe

Q: What are some top safety tips for families in Tehaleh?

A: There are a few simple steps can go a long way here:

• Clear brush and flammable materials at least 5 feet from your home.
• Make and practice a home escape plan (and don’t forget the pets!)
• Test smoke alarms twice a year (daylight saving time is a good reminder.)
• Build a “go bag” with medications, chargers, water, and essentials in case you need to leave quickly.

Q: What’s one small thing every Tehaleh family can do to be better prepared?

A: Pick a family meeting spot and make sure everyone knows where it is. That could be the mailbox, the end of the driveway, or a neighbor’s porch. In an emergency, having a clear place to meet helps first responders know everyone is safe.

And don’t forget to practice. Kids remember what they do even more than what they hear.

Q: Any upcoming public events or ways to visit Station 117?

A: Yes, we’re excited to kick things off with a Grand Opening celebration on August 23, 2025 and everyone is invited. It’s a great chance to tour the station, meet the crew, and learn more about how we serve the community.

Later this year, we’ll be back for the Santa Run in December, bringing lights, music, and holiday cheer through the neighborhood. While no other events are scheduled yet, we’re excited to be here and hope to host more in the future. You might also see us at school visits, park events, or just out and about. Feel free to say hi.

Q: What’s a fun fact about Station 117?

A: The dining table inside the station was handmade by Tehaleh community members. It’s already one of our favorite features and a daily reminder that this place is built on connection.

What Did We Learn?

With a full-time crew now based in Tehaleh, residents can count on faster response times and a stronger emergency presence right in the neighborhood.

Take a moment to check your own fire safety plan and see how you can be a stronger fire safety advocate for your home, your family, and the community.

Don’t miss the Grand Opening celebration on August 23rd to meet the crew in person, tour the station, and learn more about how Station 117 will serve Tehaleh. Welcome to the neighborhood, Station 117!