What is a fire department's mutual aid agreement?

A fire department's mutual aid agreement is fundamentally an arrangement with other emergency services to provide assistance during major incidents. This type of agreement is critical in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency response during large-scale events such as wildfires, natural disasters, or significant structural fires.

When one department encounters an emergency that exceeds its capacity, it can call upon neighboring departments to send additional personnel, equipment, and resources. This collaboration ensures that the response is swift and coordinated, ultimately saving lives and mitigating property damage.

These agreements typically outline the terms of cooperation, including the responsibilities of each party, the types of resources shared, and the protocols for communication during emergencies. The goal is to leverage the collective capabilities and expertise of multiple agencies to improve public safety and maintain operational efficiency in response efforts.