During an emergency event, people want the quickest response possible. Whether you are experiencing a fire or medical emergency, receiving prompt help is at the forefront of your mind, not the name on the truck or uniform that arrives.

Regionalization of emergency services is the concept where jurisdictional boundary lines blur to provide people with the most efficient response possible. It represents the taxpayers by creating a common focus on fire and medical services rather than egos. By making use of common dispatch frequencies, standardized training and operating procedures (see video below), taxpayer supported agencies have the ability to respond as the closest possible unit, provide a consistent level of care, and reduce duplicity in taxation.

Regionalization is not a new concept. The fire departments of the Phoenix Valley (Regionalization video Apple | Windows) have utilized a regional response model through automatic aid agreements for a number of years, with tremendous success. However, as all levels of government comes to grips with how to do more with less, larger communities such as the City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles County are exploring regionalized responses as a way to maintain and actually increase service to the end users. Our goal is for the Fire and emergency medical providers in Pima County to do the same.

The precious seconds that tick by during a fire or medical emergency can never be regained. Regionalized response models get the right unit, to the right emergency, at the right time. This leads to a better outcome for the person experiencing the emergency and can ultimately lead to reduction in cost.

As participating organizations work together more and more, duplication of efforts and services decrease. This is reflected in areas such as the Pima Regional Hazardous Materials Response team. By consolidating the resources of various agencies, the monetary burden associated with training and emergency response is spread over a wider area, allowing the service to benefit the greatest number of people.

The common thread among regionalized fire and emergency medical service providers is they are all taxpayer supported organizations.

Golder Ranch is committed to regionalization of fire and emergency medical services. By partnering with our neighboring regional departments: Northwest Fire District, Avra Valley Fire District, Picture Rocks Fire District, and Three Points Fire District, the residents of these five fire districts know that when they need help, the resources of these organizations are at their disposal.