Providence Fire Department Expands EMS Coverage and Modernizes Rescue Fleet
New frontline rescue and 10th peak-demand EMS unit strengthen response capacity as Providence modernizes five of seven frontline rescues in two years
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Mayor Brett P. Smiley today joined Providence Fire Department Chief Derek Silva, Providence Councilman Miguel Sanchez to announce that the City is expanding emergency medical services coverage and continuing a major modernization of its frontline rescue fleet with the delivery of a new rescue apparatus assigned to Rescue 1 at the Broad Street Fire Station.
The new rescue replaces Rescue 1’s current frontline apparatus, providing the department with additional reserve capacity to support peak-demand operations, routine maintenance, and other operational needs. Rescue 1 is an Advanced Life Support (ALS) unit staffed by two Firefighter/EMTs and responded to 5,932 calls in 2025, making it one of the busiest rescue companies in New England. The new apparatus was ordered in 2023 at a cost of $386,913.
“This investment is about making sure our firefighters and EMTs have reliable equipment and the resources they need to provide the highest level of emergency medical care to Providence residents,” said Providence Fire Chief Derek Silva. “Rescue 1 is one of our busiest companies, and replacing its frontline apparatus strengthens our ability to keep that unit in service while also giving us the reserve capacity we need to maintain coverage when other rescues are out of service.”
Expanding EMS Coverage During Peak Demand
The department is also expanding EMS coverage with the addition of a 10th staffed rescue during periods of peak demand. The new impact rescue will operate seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, increasing daytime staffing to 10 rescue companies during the hours when Providence experiences its highest volume of EMS calls.
“Providence deserves fast, reliable emergency medical care and this expansion strengthens our ability to deliver exactly that,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “By investing in additional staffed rescues, new frontline apparatus and the firefighters and EMS professionals who serve our city day in and day out, we are improving response capacity, reducing our reliance on neighboring communities for assistance and modernizing our fleet. Providence neighbors deserve peace of mind knowing their first responders can protect communities when they are needed most.”
