I called for an ambulance; why did you send a fire engine too?
Normal Fire Department ambulances are staffed with two paramedics. Based on information our dispatch center receives prior to our arrival, we may need more equipment or manpower to properly care for the patient. Sometimes the condition of the patient may require both paramedics to work on the patient in the back of the ambulance or sometimes the paramedics need assistance moving the patient to the ambulance.

The engine company is sent to calls where the likelihood of that situation is the greatest. The engine company provides additional manpower and additional help for the paramedics if it is needed at the call. If the engine is not needed, it is returned to service.

Also, our engine companies carry medical equipment on board. Depending on where the call is, the engine may be closer to the call than the responding ambulance. In this case, the engine company acts as the first responder to assess the patient condition and prepare the patient for transport when the ambulance arrives.

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1. How do I schedule a tour of a fire station?
2. My Carbon Monoxide alarm is beeping. What should I do?
3. Where should I install the smoke alarms in my home?
4. Will NFD check my child's car seat to make sure it's safe?
5. Do I need a permit to have an outdoor fire?
6. I called for an ambulance; why did you send a fire engine too?
7. A member of my household has a functional need. What should I do to help out emergency response?
8. I have questions about my ambulance bill. Whom should I contact?
9. What’s the difference between a fire engine and a fire truck?
10. How can I become a Normal Firefighter/Paramedic?
11. Why are fire engines red?
12. How can I get information on breaking news and emergencies?
13. How often is my business inspected by the fire department?
14. How do I know if my smoke alarm is working?
15. How do I schedule fire safety presentations for my school or organization?
16. Why do firefighters wear red suspenders?
17. Every time I cook, my smoke alarm goes off. What should I do?
18. What is a Knox Box? Do I need one?
19. How long do I have to correct violations on a commercial fire inspection?
20. Will I get a fine if my fire alarm goes off and there isn't a fire?