Even though our primary responsibility will always be fighting fires, these days we fulfill another role - that of first-responding units on injuries and illnesses.

When you dial 9-1-1, we're dispatched along with an ambulance. Because of the location of our district, Kansas City ambulances are often many minutes away from our residents -- time that's too precious to waste. Thankfully, most Southern Platte firefighters are also emergency medical technicians who can provide basic life support until the ambulance arrives.

Use this section to learn more about safety -- in your boat, your vehicle, and your home. You can also learn more about what constitutes a medical emergency, and what you can do until we arrive.