Eugene Springfield Fire Union launches community ambulance notification tool

Eugene City Council members were presented with pressing public safety concerns during their meeting on April 14, 2025, as local emergency services reported significant resource shortages. Fire department representatives highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that on a calm day, they had been down to just one ambulance eight times, with multiple instances of being completely out of ambulances. This situation raises serious questions about the capacity to respond to emergencies in a city of approximately 250,000 residents.

To address these challenges, the fire department has launched a new notification tool available at helpEugeneSpringfieldfire.com. This platform allows community members to receive real-time updates on the availability of ambulances and fire engines, aiming to enhance transparency and public awareness regarding emergency service limitations.

In addition to fire services, the meeting featured a strong call for increased support for the Cahoots program, which provides critical mental health and crisis intervention services. Alex York, a representative from the downtown Eugene Public Library, emphasized the vital role Cahoots plays in assisting individuals experiencing mental health crises. York argued that the program should receive full funding from the city, noting its effectiveness in de-escalating situations and providing care that other services have struggled to deliver.

The discussions underscored the urgent need for enhanced funding and resources for both emergency services and mental health support in Eugene. As the city grapples with these challenges, the council's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of public safety and community health services.