Chief Eversol outlines Sugar Land Fire Department's operational improvements and training initiatives

During the Sugar Land City Council meeting on March 18, 2025, Fire Chief Eversol presented a comprehensive overview of the Sugar Land Fire Department's operations, highlighting significant improvements and ongoing challenges that directly impact community safety and emergency response.

One of the key points discussed was the department's response to an increasing call volume, which has risen by 5% from the previous year, totaling approximately 13,000 incidents. Chief Eversol emphasized the importance of maintaining high performance standards, noting that residents expect rapid and effective responses to emergencies. The average response time currently stands at 8 minutes and 37 seconds, with efforts underway to refine this measurement to align with industry standards.

The Chief also shared insights into the department's innovative practices, such as the implementation of a whole blood program, which has already saved lives in critical situations. This initiative positions Sugar Land among the top 2% of fire departments in the nation for its proactive approach to emergency medical services.

In addition to operational metrics, the meeting highlighted the department's commitment to training and development. Over 31,000 hours of training were logged in the past year, focusing on enhancing skills and preparedness among firefighters. New leadership initiatives were introduced to ensure that every employee has access to effective mentorship and development opportunities.

Community engagement remains a priority, with the department reporting a successful year in outreach efforts, including a record number of participants in the Citizens Fire Academy and significant attendance at community events. The department aims to continue fostering these relationships to enhance public safety awareness and education.

Looking ahead, Chief Eversol identified recruitment and retention as critical challenges, particularly in attracting qualified paramedics. The department is actively working on strategies to improve these areas, ensuring that it can maintain its high standards of service in the face of growing demands.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Sugar Land Fire Department's dedication to continuous improvement and community service, with a clear focus on enhancing safety and emergency response capabilities for all residents.