Why does a fire engine respond along with an ambulance to medical emergencies?

When dealing with medical emergencies – seconds count. In the City of Hanford, ambulance response times are usually around ten (10) minutes; whereas the Hanford Fire Department response times are usually around five (5) minutes. Therefore, we send both types of crews so the firefighters can provide rapid assessment and basic life support treatment for the patient, and then assist the ambulance crew when they arrive later with advanced life support measures and transporting of the patient. This deployment method is used throughout the Nation as it is still one of most effective and efficient means to save lives.

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1. Why does a fire engine respond along with an ambulance to medical emergencies?
2. Why do Fire Engines use lights and sirens, even at night when there’s no traffic?
3. Why do so many fire engines respond to simple incidents?
4. Why do I see fire trucks with full lights and sirens go through a red light at intersections and then, after they go through, they turn off their lights and slow down?
5. I saw a fire engine at a local grocery store or restaurant. Why do firefighters use fire engines for non-emergency purposes while they are on duty?
6. How can I participate in the Fire Department's ride-along program?
7. If I represent a civic group such as a church, a club, an association, etc. Is it possible to have someone from the fire department speak at one of our meetings?
8. My smoke detector is making a "chirping" noise. What's wrong with it and how do I know if it is working?
9. Where can I purchase a fire extinguisher?
10. Does the Hanford Fire Department service fire extinguishers?
11. I own a business and have been told to get a fire extinguisher. How big a fire extinguisher do I need?
12. How can I schedule a tour of a fire station?
13. How do I schedule a fire engine to attend my event (carnival, block party, safety day, etc.)?
14. Where do I report tall weeds around houses and vacant lots?
15. How do I report a leaking fire hydrant?
16. How much does a fire report cost and how do I get one?
17. How do I become a firefighter?
18. Is it ok to burn on my property? (i.e., portable fire pits or chimneys)
19. What is a Rapid Entry Box, and should I have one for my commercial business?
20. Does the City of Hanford allow fireworks?
21. How do I dispose of household hazardous waste such as paint, paint thinner, pesticides, herbicides, etc.?
22. What is Hanford Fire Department's ISO rating?