Field Operations

The Department operates between 31 and 35 paramedic ambulances each day. This includes 3 paramedic rescue ambulances, 1 tactical paramedic ambulance and 1 hazardous materials paramedic ambulance. In addition, 6 paramedic command units are staffed each day which are equipped with Advanced Life Support equipment, special rescue & Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)  equipment and multi-casualty gear but do not have transport capabilities. The Department provides a variety of special purpose units on an as needed basis including bike teams, motorcycle teams, cart teams, boat teams and special rescue teams. 

ATCEMS response selection process is based on closest EMS unit without regard for city/county political boundaries. Ambulances are currently staffed with at least two paramedics and work a 48 hour work week schedule. Employee selection of a schedule/station is through a tenure based bid process every six months. The bidding and the on-call schedule has been developed by Austin-Travis County EMS in close cooperation and the Employee's Association. ATCEMS paramedics must attend department training and maintain their certifications with the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Austin-Travis County EMS System.

ATCEMS Rescue Paramedics provide immediate on-scene advanced life support medical care in rescue situations including vertical rope rescue, swift water rescue, confined space rescue and technical rescue. They must also maintain a specified physical conditioning level that is tested bi-annually.

ATCEMS Tactical Paramedics directly support the Austin Police Department SWAT team providing immediate on-scene advanced life support medical care to tactical team members, hostages, victims, bystanders, and suspects in the inner perimeter.

ATCEMS Haz-mat Paramedics integrate into hazardous materials operations with the Austin Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team, Travis County Hazardous Materials team and other regional CBRNE teams to provide immediate on-scene advanced life support medical care to hazardous materials team members, victims, bystanders, and other response personnel. Team members carry SCBA, PAPR's, multiple detectors and a wireless Panasonic Toughbook laptop with hazardous material diagnostic and medical treatment software.