New numbers show how Desert Hot Springs fire station is boosting public safety

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Fire Station 98 in Desert Hot Springs was a critical addition to the city's public safety goals.

The City of Desert Hot Springs hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new station Wednesday morning, though the station became operational last November.

News Channel 3's Kendall Flynn first brought you inside the new station shortly after it opened late last year. CAL FIRE showed off the state-of-the-art facilities and the critical equipment that they said would strengthen public safety in the area.

One of the key benefits of the station's location was cutting down response times for the eastern portion of Desert Hot Springs, which city leaders called underserved due to the lack of fire stations in the area. Extra strain was also being placed on the city's other fire stations, like Station 37 near the center of the city.

Now, new numbers from the fire department showcase how the addition of Station 98 is taking a burden off of other fire personnel in the area and giving confidence to residents living in the area about their safety.

Stay with us for our full report tonight.