Untitled Document Fire Department Fire Department Residents are served by a 51 member department, which includes 32 paramedic firefighters staffing two engine houses. University City was the first municipality in St. Louis County to require fire fighters to also be paramedics. This cross-training provides residents with dual protection. Residents are assured of a quick response time with 911 service and a fleet of fire and emergency vehicles. U. City also participates in mutual aid agreements with other departments by providing and receiving additional emergency service as needed.
Special programs offer a strong emphasis on public education to reduce loss of life and property.
To reduce fire hazards, comprehensive inspections are conducted for all multifamily dwellings and commercial, industrial and public buildings. The Fire and Police departments offer cadet training programs to recruit and train African-Americans and women as paramedic fire fighters and police officers. Cadets are paid wages in addition to training and classes, which makes this a front-runner in municipal government programs. The current Fire Chief, Bob Metcalf, was appointed in 1989. University City Fire Department staffing levels for two engine houses in 1998 include 51 personnel.