The Grand Island Fire Department Emergency Medical Service responds to requests encompassing an area of approximately 670 square miles. This area includes the City of Grand Island, the majority of Hall County and western areas of Merrick County. Two staffed Advanced Life Support ambulances respond to approximately 5000 calls annually.  Each ambulance is staffed with a Firefighter/EMT and a Firefighter/Paramedic. The Grand Island Fire Department requires all employees to maintain a National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician certification and all Paramedics to be cross trained as Firefighters. Questions regarding the Emergency Medical Services can be directed to EMS Division Chief Russ Blackburn:  308-385-5444 ext. 227 or rblackburn@grand-island.com.