Operations

On-Duty Staff

Puget Sound Fire operates 17 fire stations with an on-duty staff of 67 firefighters, 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

9-1-1 Call Dispatch

Puget Sound Fire does not have its own 9-1-1 call dispatch center. Valley Communications Center (Valley Com) is the Regional 9-1-1 Center providing emergency communications services to the communities of South King County. Valley Com is responsible for answering emergency 9-1-1 calls and dispatching resources such as police officers, firefighters, and paramedics to citizens requiring assistance. Puget Sound Fire utilizes Valley Com to assist in call coordination and improved efficiency.

Remember to call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency. At the first sign of chest pains, 9-1-1 can be used to access pre-hospital cardiac care.

Number of Units Responding to Emergencies

Puget Sound Fire emergency response may be one single unit, or numerous units, depending on the type and complexity of the emergency incident. Our operations are highly organized so we can achieve the maximum response efficiently and in a safe manner.

Fire Department Responses

In addition to responding to and controlling all types of fires, Puget Sound Fire also responds to many other types of emergency incidents:

Disasters

In the event of disasters such as wind storms, earthquakes, and other types of disasters where emergency call volume is high, calls will be prioritized. Those calls with the most critical need are served first.

Emergency Medical Services

The department responds to emergency medical calls to provide basic life support. All of our firefighters are certified as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).

Hazardous Materials

The department staffs a hazardous materials response unit 24/7. Firefighters are specially trained to handle hazardous materials incidents that occur either through leaks or spills. The firefighters wear special chemical protective suits to help protect them from any adverse effects. For more information, please view our HazMat Response Video explaining HazMat response procedures.

Extrication/Technical Rescue

All Puget Sound Fire first responders are fully trained in vehicle extrication rescue techniques. The department also has members trained in technical rescue responses, including rope rescue, trench collapse, swift water rescue, and confined space rescue.

Service Calls

The department responds to both medical and property service calls. Some of the services we provide include controlling leaking water in buildings to limit damage, assisting with smoke removal, and assisting with lifts after a person has fallen.

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