Flint Fire Department Launches Life-Saving Ambulance Service
To combat long wait times for emergency support, the City of Flint Fire Department launched its own ambulance service.
About the ambulances
The City of Flint will maintain two ambulances in active service, with a third ambulance available as a backup. The city’s firefighters, all of whom are certified EMTs (plus some with specialized training in pediatrics and trauma), are qualified to operate the ambulances and provide life support. This ensures that Flint residents receive prompt and effective emergency care.
Due to the ongoing countywide crisis, where often only one ambulance serves the entire 600-square-mile area of Genesee County, Flint’s new service is anticipated to alleviate the strain on emergency services. The city-run ambulances will operate exclusively within Flint, though private ambulance companies will continue to serve the area as well. Genesee County 9-1-1 will dispatch the closest available ambulance.
Funding
The ambulances’ funding came from a combination of opioid settlement funds and American Rescue Plan Act funding, following a proposal by Mayor Neeley and unanimous approval by the Flint City Council. This move is particularly geared towards improving emergency response for overdose cases, where rapid transport to medical facilities is critical. The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services and the Genesee County Medical Control Authority have approved the new ambulance service, which is now operational.
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