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Field Operations

Operations (Ops) – Suppression

The Operations Division responds to “all hazards” in the community. Personnel must be prepared for fires, explosions, trauma/medical related incidents, hazardous materials releases, transportation related accidents, natural and man-made disasters, weapons of mass destruction (WMD), and the rescue of trapped victims. This division also responds to all manner of non-emergency calls for service to assist citizens when there is no one else available to provide assistance. These calls include pumping flooded basements, securing downed wires, and seeking out the source of potentially dangerous odors or other similarly related calls for service.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

We are responsible for providing:

  • Basic Emergency Medical support/care
  • Paramedic based Advanced Life Support
  • Automatic External Defibrillation (AED)

EMS guidelines are managed through a number of programs, including:

  • Standing orders
  • Policies and procedures
  • In-service training

Continuing education programs for both EMT’s and Paramedics ensure that personnel are trained to appropriate knowledge and skill levels.

Emergency Response

San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department’s emergency calls for service are in excess of 13,500 times a year.

The goal for San Mateo County Fire Service is to respond to 90% of all Priority 1 emergency calls in six minutes 59 seconds (6:59) or less.


For information on training, please visit our Training Division page.