Fire Department Experiences Surge in Calls and Faster Response Times Last Year

The Maricopa Fire and Medical Department (MFMD) reported a notable 6% increase in emergency calls last year, accompanied by an impressive reduction in response time, according to Fire Chief Brad Pitassi’s annual report presented to the Maricopa City Council on Tuesday.

Response times, which fell from an average of 6 minutes and 49 seconds in 2023 to 6 minutes and 16 seconds, are credited to the completion of major construction projects and improvements in local infrastructure. “Firefighters hate traffic just as much as every resident of Maricopa,” Pitassi remarked. He emphasized that the enhancement in travel time for emergency responders is a direct benefit of these completed projects.

Station 571, located near Smith-Enke and Porter Roads, was particularly active, responding to 2,776 calls, which accounted for 42% of the department’s total calls. Station 575 at Edison Road and Estrella Parkway handled approximately 20% of calls. A significant majority, around 80%, were related to emergency medical services. The top categories of these calls included:

• Falls: 19%
• Illness: 17%
• Breathing problems: 10%
• Traffic incidents: 10%
• Altered mental status: 8%

Alongside response improvements, Pitassi highlighted the reinstatement of valued community programs, such as the chaplain program and enhanced engagement with the Fire P.A.L.S. elementary school initiative. These efforts aim to strengthen community ties and promote safety awareness among residents.