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Ariz. city drops private service, launches its own FD ambulance service

Scottsdale previously relied on Maricopa Ambulance before spending approximately $1.5 million to create the fire department’s ambulance service

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Scottsdale Fire Department is officially launching its ground ambulance service.

Rescue 602 will be stationed at Fire Station 2 on Indian School Road and is expected to respond to its first call shortly after 6:00 a.m. on Dec. 22, AZFamily reported.


Scottsdale bought four ambulances for the fire department in 2023 but still relies on Maricopa Ambulance

The fire department previously depended on Rural Metro, a private ambulance company, before switching to Maricopa Ambulance for patient transport.

In March, the city council approved approximately $1.5 million to fund the startup costs for the new ambulance service.

The city purchased four new ambulances and hired about 20 employees to support the program. Officials believe the new service will improve response times.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.