Medford Fire Dept. Expands EMS Coverage with Launch of Third Squad
Published on October 22, 2025
Squad 12 joins the fleet, providing seven-day-a-week coverage and reducing response wait times
The Medford Fire Department (MFD) is proud to announce the launch of Squad 12, the third unit in the department’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Squad Program. With this addition, MFD now provides continuous seven-day-a-week EMS coverage—enhancing response times, improving engine availability, and meeting the growing community demand for emergency medical services.
The EMS Squad Program, approved by the Medford City Council as part of MFD’s Strategic Plan, was introduced in 2023 to address the increasing number of medical and “good intent” calls. The program’s success has been significant, with Squad 13 launching in October 2023, Squad 14 following in 2024, and Squad 12 officially entering service in fall 2025. In its first weekend of expanded coverage, an EMS Squad recorded two CPR saves—an early testament to the program’s lifesaving impact.
Since its inception, the EMS Squad Program has responded to more than 3,280 calls, intercepting 1,440 incidents that would have otherwise required a fire engine or truck company. This has allowed MFD to keep engines available for fire and rescue emergencies while maintaining rapid response to medical calls.
“Our EMS Squad Program has made a tremendous impact on our ability to provide effective and timely medical response. With three squads now in operation, we’re enhancing service citywide, reducing wait times, and ensuring our engines remain ready for fire emergencies," said Fire Chief Eric Thompson.
Key Benefits of the EMS Squad Program
- Reduced Response Times: Expanded coverage ensures faster service for overlapping medical calls.
- Improved Engine Availability: By intercepting EMS calls, engines remain ready for fire and rescue incidents.
- Efficient Resource Use: Each call receives the right response, improving reliability and coordination.
- Cost-Effective Service Delivery: The program maximizes efficiency to meet growing emergency medical demand.
The EMS Squad Program was developed under the City Council-approved Fire Strategic Plan, a roadmap focused on improving public safety, optimizing emergency response, and supporting Medford’s growing population.
About the EMS Squad Program
Launched in 2023 with City Council approval and funding from a utility bill increase, the EMS Squad Program deploys two-person crews dedicated to responding to medical and good intent calls. These units reduce the strain on engine companies, improve overall response times, and enhance the department’s ability to serve Medford residents efficiently and effectively.