New helipad enhances emergency services in the Lake Vermilion area
The Lake Vermilion Fire Brigade (LVFB) added a new helispot landing site for emergency flight evacuation and a direct access dock for boat deployment. IRRR supported the project with a $165,000 Community Infrastructure grant to LVFB. Total project investment including grants from St. Louis County and other private supporters is $274,593.
Prior to the improvements, the LVFB Fire Hall was surrounded by a gravel parking lot that was used as a pad during medical emergencies. During emergency transports, the gravel was windblown by the helicopter blades, creating a hazard to ambulatory, emergency response personnel and patients. The IRRR grant helped pay for resurfacing the gravel area with asphalt to remedy the safety issue. The newly paved area will also be used for logistical support with wild and residential fires and search and rescue operations.
Helispot Landing Site
The new dock was added to improve response time and access during emergencies that require transport of a patient from the fire boat to an ambulance. The existing public docks are frequently congested and not in close proximity to the LVFB facility and helispot.
LVFB is a nonprofit organization that offers emergency medical services, search, rescue and firefighting services year-round to Lake Vermilion and its surrounding area. The lake is over 61 square miles, and LVFB serves over 3,000 full- and part-time residents and thousands of tourists who visit each year.
The organization is comprised entirely of volunteers and operated through private donations from area residents. LVFB owns and operates a fleet of emergency equipment including a fire boat, airboat and fire truck.
