EMS Division
The EMS Division was put into operations in March of 2007.
The Division consists of six stations, each with a ALS, and a BLS
Ambulance, and 3 Field Supervisors, who
oversee two stations each.
Each station covers a district, numbered 1-6, which
corresponds with the Fire District of the same designation.
In cases of emergencies, where extra help is needed, several backup units, and
outside contractors
can be put into service.
History
The EMS Division was born out of the Fire Departments Paramedic Program.
At the time the Fire Department was handling all medical emergencies, running 6 ALS
Ambulances out of Fire Stations throughout the city.
A study was done, and it was determined that this was not adequate to provide for the
needs of the residents. By only running ALS Ambulances, these units were being
overburdened with minor emergencies, and patient transports.
It was determined that BLS Ambulances would be sufficient for a majority of these
calls.
A plan was put into place to form a separate division.
The six ALS Ambulances the Fire Department was running were transferred to the
new EMS Division, and an additional six Ambulances were purchased.
All used ambulances were overhauled, and placed into service throughout the City.
Three Supervisor SUV's were also purchased, and put into service.
The six EMS Stations were then built in strategic locations throughout the city.
Most stations are brand new, but a few are old fire houses that have been remodeled
for use by the Ambulance crews.