There is a hazardous materials team, and the department functions at the Technician Level in accordance with O.S.H.A. regulations. The fire department also has a special rescue team providing high angle rescue and confined space rescue. The department has established Mutual Aid agreements with adjoining fire departments and is involved with the Muscatine County Mutual Aid Association. The fire department answers calls for medical emergencies in a first-response mode. Medical calls are handled by the appropriate paramedic engine companies.
Patient transport is handled by a local private ambulance company.
Motor vehicle accidents are responded to by the appropriate engine company and the Attack Unit, which is manned by the truck company crew. All heavy rescue equipment is carried on the Attack Unit. In addition to emergency responses, the fire department provides a high level of non-emergency service to the citizens. Each of the three shifts has been given a different major responsibility. The Blue shift is responsible for pre-planning target hazards in the city.