Halifax Council Orders Review of Fire Service's Response to Medical Calls
Halifax Regional Council has requested a comprehensive staff report examining Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency's response to medical calls, which accounted for roughly 34 per cent of its incidents last year. The review will assess provincial support, cost-sharing opportunities, and the impact on fire coverage.
Halifax regional council has asked for a thorough staff report on Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency’s (HRFE) responses to medical calls, including recommendations on defining a service level for these incidents.
Coun. Janet Steele stated that HRFE responded to about 5,920 medical calls in 2025. Those 5,920 medical calls represent about 34 per cent of the roughly 17,370 total incidents the fire service responded to last year.
The upcoming report will track medical calls by fire station, examine differences in response across the region, compare arrival times with Emergency Health Services (EHS), and evaluate impacts on fire and rescue coverage. Medical calls take crews and apparatus out of position for fires or rescues.
Staff will consult with Nova Scotia Health and EHS to clarify provincial and municipal roles for medical services and identify gaps in current provincial support. The review aims to address potential gaps in provincial support and funding.
Deputy Mayor Patty Cuttell noted a difference in how these services are funded, stating that while patients pay a portion of an ambulance fee, fire response is covered solely by the municipality.
Provincial Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson said she could not comment further because it is not clear yet what the report will say or what the ask will be from Halifax.
In addition to the review, council passed a motion asking staff to develop a long-term Halifax Fire strategy identifying staffing, equipment, and fire station needs.