Divisions

The Elkhart Fire Department EMS Division provides advanced emergency medical care to residents and visitors of Elkhart. Our certified Paramedics and EMTs provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) from seven fire stations, with a focus on compassionate care, ongoing training, and community preparedness. EFD EMS works closely with local hospitals, law enforcement, and community partners to provide coordinated emergency services.

Whole Blood Program: EFD’s innovative Whole Blood Program allows specially trained paramedics to administer lifesaving whole blood in the field to critically injured or hemorrhaging patients. Developed in partnership with Elkhart General Hospital and the South Bend Medical Foundation, the program brings critical, time-sensitive care directly to patients when every second counts.

Technical Rescue Team

The Elkhart Fire Department’s Technical Rescue Team is specially trained and equipped to handle complex, high-risk rescue incidents requiring specialized skills and equipment.

The team responds to:

• Confined Space Rescue

• Structural Collapse Rescue

• Water & Ice Rescue

• Trench Rescue

• Vehicle & Machinery Extrication

• Rope Rescue

The team operates two specialty rescue rigs and a support trailer equipped with advanced rescue, shoring, cutting, and rope equipment.

In addition to serving Elkhart, the team provides mutual aid throughout the region. Through ongoing training and regional coordination, the team is prepared to respond when specialized rescue capabilities are needed.

The Elkhart Fire Department’s Training Division keeps our firefighters ready for every call. Through hands-on training, realistic simulations, and live-fire exercises at our three-story training tower, we build the skills, confidence, and teamwork needed to respond safely and effectively. From recruit academy training to advanced fireground operations, our Training Division ensures Elkhart firefighters are prepared to protect and serve our community—24/7.

The Fire Prevention Division is committed to protecting life, property, and the environment through code enforcement, fire investigation, and public education. The Division is staffed by the Fire Marshal and three Deputy Fire Marshals, who work collaboratively to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, determine the origin and cause of fires, and deliver educational outreach to the community. Together, they serve as a vital resource in promoting a fire-safe Elkhart for all residents, businesses, and visitors.