Fire Department Faces Crisis Over Essential Ladder Truck Needs

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the increasing demand for emergency services in El Paso County, highlighting a significant rise in calls for service over the past decade. In 2013, the county recorded 996 calls, which surged to 1,403 in 2023, despite a previous decision to stop responding to mental health-related calls due to a specialized ambulance contract. This upward trend is attributed to population growth and commercial development in the area, which now boasts a population of 740,567, surpassing that of Denver County.

The meeting emphasized the implications of this growth on local infrastructure, particularly regarding emergency response capabilities. Officials noted that with approximately 5% of the population likely to engage in recreational activities, an estimated 37,000 vehicles could pass through Woodland Park daily, further straining resources.

A key focus was the need for a ladder truck, essential for maintaining the community's Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). The PPC rating, which ranges from one to ten, assesses fire suppression capabilities, with a lower number indicating better service. Currently, the community holds a PPC rating of three, which could drop to four if the ladder truck is lost. This downgrade would not only affect emergency response effectiveness but also lead to increased insurance costs for residents, as rates are influenced by the community's ISO rating.

The discussions underscored the urgent need for investment in fire department resources to ensure public safety and maintain favorable insurance rates for the growing population of El Paso County.