When it comes to fire and EMS readiness, efficient organization isn’t just a convenience–it’s a necessity. That was the mindset of Minnesota-based Fire Chief Dave Dreeelan, who oversaw projects for both the Mendota Heights Fire Department and Plymouth Fire Department. As each department prepared for new station construction, Chief Dreelean knew that selecting the right storage systems would be critical to supporting daily operations and long-term durability. 

 

The Challenge: Disorganized Gear & Inefficient Storage

Before partnering with GearGrid, both departments faced the same set of challenges: 

  • Turnout gear scattered and poorly organized  
  • Hose storage that was cluttered and hard to access 
  • Delays caused by inefficient layouts during emergency response 

Chief Dreelan needed a reliable, comprehensive fire station storage solution that could streamline operations, protect equipment, and stand up to daily use.

 

Why GearGrid?

What set GearGrid apart from the start was more than just product quality–it was a genuine commitment to understanding the unique challenges fire departments face every day. From the first conversation, Chief Dreelan recognized that GearGrid wasn’t offering one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, the team took the time to listen, ask the right questions, and recommend configurations tailored to each department’s layout, operations, and workflow.

GearGrid’s responsiveness and professionalism made the process feel like a true partnership. Every interaction–from initial design planning to product delivery–was marked by a level of attentiveness that gave Chief Dreelan confidence he had chosen the right partner. The team’s deep industry experience was evident, and their recommendations reflected a strong understanding of how to balance rugged durability with everyday functionality. 

It wasn’t just about providing lockers or racks–it was about building smarter systems that help firefighters do their jobs better, safer, and faster. For Chief Dreelan, that made all the difference. 

 

The Solution: Custom Fire Station Storage Solutions

GearGrid worked closely with both fire departments to deliver tailored fire station storage systems that addressed their operational pain points. The solution included a full suite of products from GearGrid’s Fire & EMS product line, including:

  • Standard Wall Mount & Freestanding Lockers: GearGrid’s fire station lockers provide durable and accessible storage for turnout gear, improving readiness and organization across both departments.

  • Mobile Hose Drying Racks: GearGrid’s mobile units ensure fast drying and organized fire station hose storage, reducing trip hazards and equipment deterioration.

  • Mobile Workstations: These flexible storage units support easy equipment transport and organization for both routine and emergency tasks.

All together, these products created a modular and scalable system that could adapt to the departments’ evolving needs while significantly enhancing functionality and workflow.

The Results: Functionality Meets Efficiency

The result was a turnout gear room and hose storage area that was not only clean and professional-looking but also optimized for daily operations. 

Firefighters could now access their gear faster, store hoses more efficiently, and maintain a safer, more organized station.

When asked for suggestions for the GearGrid team, Chief Dreelan had a simple yet powerful message:

“Keep doing what you’re doing.”

 

Elevate Your Fire Station Storage with GearGrid

The collaboration with Mendota Heights and Plymouth Fire Departments is a powerful example of how GearGrid’s fire station lockers, hose storage racks, and full suite of fire station storage solutions can revolutionize station organization and emergency response.

 

Ready to Transform Your Station?

GearGrid helps fire departments nationwide improve functionality and readiness. Explore the full Fire & EMS product lineup or request a free quote to see how customized solutions can make a difference in your station.