A multi-objective model for locating fire stations

The purpose of this paper is to determine where to locate fire-station facilities. The decision of where to locate depends upon a set of tangible and intangible criteria that are unique to a given problem. Thus, the traditional models that incorporate only travel times or travel distances are no longer appropriate. This paper presents a multiple criteria modeling approach, via integer goal programming, to the fire-station location problem that involves conflicting objectives. The proposed model describes the situation in which the city evaluates potential sites in 31 sub-areas that would serve these sub-areas in the year 2005. The model attempts to determine the location of fire stations, and the areas they are supposed to serve. The model considers multiple objectives that incorporate both travel times and travel distances from stations to demand sites (sub-areas). In addition, the model considers other cost-related objectives that have been considered in previous studies. Other criteria considered are technical or political in nature, or used to satisfy certain system requirements. Further experimentation is carried out, by incorporating the results of a set-covering problem of the same situation. The results of the model indicate that the developed integer goal programming model seems to be an ideal technique that is applicable to the real-world fire-station location problem. Through extensive and direct interaction with decision-makers, model design and experimentation helps in a better understanding of the fire-station location problem. This paper includes discussions of the use of the multi-criteria model, the synergism of judgement and analysis, and ensuing recommendations that resulted.