South County Fire rolling out new deployment model says it will monitor for needed changes

South County Fire's new deployment model enhances emergency services by adding three firefighters daily across 15 fire stations, ensuring 69 firefighters are available during the day and 67 at night. Fire Chief Bob Eastman noted that this approach aims to improve service efficiency across the regional fire authority, benefiting various communities. Under the new model, a minimum of 22 firefighters will respond to house fires and 34 to commercial fires. Resources will be dispatched based on 911 caller information, allowing firefighters to provide immediate medical care upon arrival. The strategic placement of resources aims to meet high-demand areas effectively, as demonstrated by relocating a paramedic unit to Martha Lake Fire Station 21, which has a higher call demand.

The model was developed using years of response data and will be monitored monthly for effectiveness. If improvements are not evident within three months, South County Fire will adjust the deployment based on the data. This proactive approach underscores the commitment to enhancing public safety and service reliability.