Response levels are based on type of incident, location, weather conditions, existing or potential emergencies, resources available and ultimately the information we are provided with. Staffing levels and the staffing of specialized resources are adjusted according to existing or potential conditions.

The closest available resource, plus the closest available resources of the type needed, respond to incidents. GPS (global positioning satellite) systems on our vehicles and CAD (computer aided dispatch) allow us to identify and dispatch the closest available fire engine. One of the priorities of the first arriving personnel is to determine the incident’s needs and adjust the response accordingly.

In some instances the closest available resource may come from another fire department. Mutual aid, automatic aid and other agreements with surrounding fire departments enable us to provide the fastest and highest level of service.