Georgetown Fire Department tackles rising EMS demand amid population growth

The Georgetown workshop held on February 25, 2025, focused on the increasing demands on the city's emergency services, particularly in light of rapid population growth and changing demographics. Key discussions highlighted the significant rise in emergency calls, particularly for medical services, which have surged by 46% since 2020. The Georgetown Fire Department, which has been operational since 1881, is projected to handle nearly 30,000 calls annually within the next five years, nearly doubling its current workload.

The meeting revealed that Georgetown's population has surpassed 140,000, with a notable influx of residents, averaging 200 new individuals per week. This demographic shift includes a higher percentage of older adults, which correlates with increased medical emergencies, particularly related to long-term care facilities and falls. The city's emergency medical services (EMS) have seen a year-over-year growth of 9%, indicating a pressing need for additional resources.

Chief Cannist emphasized the challenges faced by the department, including response times that often exceed the targeted nine minutes, which is critical for effective emergency care. Currently, only 50% of calls are responded to within this timeframe, with many calls requiring ambulances that are frequently unavailable due to high utilization rates. The department is actively exploring solutions, including potential partnerships with hospitals and the use of helicopters for patient transport.

The workshop also addressed staffing challenges, noting that many experienced personnel are nearing retirement, which could further strain resources. The department is adapting its hiring practices to include less experienced recruits to build a more diverse workforce.

In response to the growing demand, the city plans to enhance its emergency services infrastructure, including the potential construction of new fire stations and the addition of ambulances. The recent approval of a sales and use tax is expected to generate an additional $4.5 to $5 million annually, which will support these initiatives.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for Georgetown to adapt its emergency services to meet the demands of a rapidly growing and aging population, ensuring that residents receive timely and effective care.