Fire department outlines two‑person squad pilot and how it complements 4‑person staffing

Fire department leaders briefed the council on a proposed two‑person squad pilot and explained how squads and 4‑person engine staffing would work together to improve response reliability and effective response force.

Romeo, speaking for the fire leadership team, defined a squad as a light‑chassis, two‑person vehicle staffed by certified firefighters who are also emergency medical technicians. He said squads are intended to respond to both emergency medical incidents (which account for more than 60% of calls) and fire or rescue incidents, and that the units would be a lower‑cost, more nimble alternative to a full fire engine.

Romeo listed expected benefits: lower capital and operating costs relative to a heavy…