City of Vandalia Division of Fire launches new Squad Program

To improve emergency response efficiency

The Vandalia Division of Fire has announced the launch of a new Squad Program aimed at improving response times, reducing equipment wear, and better managing rising medical call volumes.

This operational shift comes as the recently completed Community Risk Assessment identified the consistent increases in emergency call volume, strains personnel, and places significant wear on engines and ladder trucks, which are costly to operate and maintain. The Squad Program represents a proactive, cost-effective solution tailored to meet these challenges head-on.

“The Squad Program allows us to respond more efficiently while extending the lifespan of our most expensive equipment,” said Chief Follick at a recent community meeting. “This is a smart, forward-looking investment in our community’s safety.”

The program also provides additional personnel for serious emergencies such as cardiac arrests, motor vehicle collisions, and structure fires—enhancing overall operational capability.

Implementation of the Squad Program is guided by call-volume data, geographical demand, and performance metrics to ensure resources are deployed where they are needed most.

The Squad was set to go into service on January 1, 2026.