Which type of emergency response vehicle is typically used for medical emergencies by HFD?

Ambulances are the primary type of emergency response vehicle used for medical emergencies by the Houston Fire Department (HFD). These vehicles are specifically equipped to provide medical care and transport patients to medical facilities. They are staffed with trained medical personnel, such as paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), who are skilled in assessing and treating a wide range of medical emergencies on the scene and during transportation.

While fire trucks are primarily designed for firefighting and rescue operations, they may also provide some medical assistance in certain situations, but they do not have the specialized equipment and capabilities that ambulances possess. Rescue boats are utilized for water rescues and aquatic emergencies, whereas utility vehicles are adapted for a variety of tasks but lack the medical capabilities required for handling medical emergencies. Therefore, ambulances stand out as the most appropriate and equipped choice for addressing medical situations.