Emergency Medical Services

In 2000, the Fire Department began responding to emergency medical calls as a designated first responder. This additional responsibility doubled the number of calls to which the department responded. Because of the strategic locations of the city's fire stations, dispatching a fire truck to life-threatening situations allowed firefighters to be on scene quickly to stabilize the situation until ambulance arrival.

Norwalk firefighters, who are trained as either emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or medical response technicians (MRTs), work closely with Norwalk Hospital paramedics on a daily basis. Since assuming first-responder duties, Norwalk firefighters have performed CPR on hundreds of patients.

Apparatus Maintenance Building

The department took occupancy of the former transit district garage on Fairfield Avenue for use as its apparatus repair facility in 2001. Prior to this acquisition, the department's mechanics were limited to using one bay at Central Station for all apparatus repairs. The new location allowed the department to have a well-equipped, four-bay maintenance shop as well as a large storage area for specialized units and reserve vehicles.

In 2008, the fire marshal's office moved into the office area in the front of this building.

Chief Denis McCarthy

In 2005, Chief Anderson retired after 46 years with the department. Westport Fire Department Chief Denis McCarthy was appointed as Anderson's replacement. Chief McCarthy led the effort to refurbish a former police boat for use as a fire boat.

Under Chief McCarthy's command, the department has also started a dive-rescue team, implemented a physical fitness program for department members, and increased manning on the rescue truck.

Grants

The department has also been the recipient of five Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grants, which have allowed for the purchase of:

• Advanced training
• Breathing apparatus
• Radios
• Specialized rescue equipment
• Turnout gear