During the recent City Council work session on May 15, 2025, the Newton Fire EMS department presented a detailed overview of its operations and the increasing demands it faces. The department is currently structured to handle three emergency medical service (EMS) calls simultaneously or one structure fire at any given time, with three stations strategically located across the city.

Station 1, the busiest of the three, accounts for approximately 40% of the total calls, covering areas south of the railroad tracks. Station 2 serves the core of the city, while Station 3 manages the southern and eastern regions. Together, these stations cover a vast area of 250 square miles for EMS and just over 100 miles for fire services.

In 2024, the department responded to over 4,300 calls for service, with 3,600 of those being EMS-related, representing 84% of total calls. This marks a significant trend, as the department has experienced five consecutive years of increasing call volume. The average number of calls per day has risen to just over 12, with March 2025 recording 450 calls—the second highest monthly total in the department's history, surpassed only by a notable ice storm in 2005.

The presentation highlighted the growing concern regarding simultaneous calls, which have become more frequent. In 2024, the department recorded 376 instances where they had to call in additional support from neighboring communities, such as Heston and Halsted, due to reaching maximum capacity. This trend reflects a broader issue of increasing call volumes not only in Newton but also in surrounding areas.

The data presented underscores the urgent need for resources and support to ensure that the Newton Fire EMS can continue to effectively serve the community amidst rising demands. As the city council considers future strategies, the implications of these trends will be critical in shaping the department's capacity to respond to emergencies.