One of the types of trucks that we staff around-the-clock is a fire engine.  This truck is staffed with three (3) firefighters who are also certified as either an emergency medical technician (EMT) or a paramedic.  Generally, the engine company responds on EMS calls for either of the following:
Provide Additional Personnel – Though the medic crew can typically handle an EMS run without assistance, there are also those times where the needs of the patient demand additional support.  This can be something as simple as helping the crew carry the patient, to the need for additional staff to help render aid to a critical patient.
First Responder – There are instances in which the engine company maybe closer to the scene, thereby allowing care to be rendered to the patient faster than by relying solely on the arrival of the medic.  The engine is equipped with medical equipment and supplies that allows them to perform a variety of patient care measures aimed at getting the patient the treatment they need without delay.