Determining the locations for new fire stations or the relocation of existing facilities are decisions that last for decades. The prudent use of public resources requires that fire service leaders make these choices using the best information possible.

The Facilities Location and Deployment Plan is a comprehensive assessment of current emergency services and response workload of the organization. It includes a historical review, as well as an analysis of future community growth as it affects the organization’s potential response workload. The study is performed by professionals with experience in all aspects of government, including fire service, community development, finance, and city administration. The process is comprehensive in scope.

Emergency Services Consulting International (ESCI) has developed the Facilities Location and Deployment Plan to assist fire service agencies develop solutions for the long-term fire and emergency service needs of their communities. This effort defines the current level of service being provided, identifies geographic areas not receiving the desired level of service, projects the impact of future development and community growth, and identifies deployment alternatives for facilities, personnel, and apparatus. In addition, ESCI benchmarks current and desired performance against national standards such as ISO, NFPA 1710/1720, and others.

The ESCI team facilitates an in-depth discussion of performance objectives for fire and emergency service, and the development of Performance Measures and Targets. These define the level of service expected (in measurable terms) for use in developing recommendations and monitoring long-term performance.

Options for deployment of resources are developed and analyzed based on the current service environment, projected growth, and defined community expectations.

Included are options for:

  • Fire station locations
  • Apparatus and personnel deployment
  • Alternative staffing models
  • Risk mitigation
  • Technology improvements
  • Cooperation and partnership
  • Other considerations

The analysis of options includes cost, benefit, and the degree to which each option will help to achieve performance targets.
As fire service leaders are tasked to “do more with less”, the need for a focused review of facility and deployment options becomes critical. ESCI associates bring a wealth of experience and information to this effort, providing creative solutions to the fire and emergency service issues facing you and your community.