Rural Metro

Private fire protection and emergency medical services provider

Rural/Metro Corporation is a private company that provides fire protection and emergency medical services (EMS) to communities across the United States. Founded in 1948, the company has grown to serve numerous municipalities, offering a range of services that include ambulance transport, fire suppression, and emergency medical response.

History

Rural/Metro was founded by Louis "Lou" Witzeman in Scottsdale, Arizona. The company began as a response to the lack of organized fire protection services in the area. Witzeman, a volunteer firefighter, saw the need for a professional service and established Rural/Metro to fill this gap. Over the years, the company expanded its services to include emergency medical services, becoming a significant provider in the private sector.

Services

Rural/Metro offers a variety of services, primarily focusing on fire protection and emergency medical services. These services are provided under contracts with municipalities, counties, and private entities.

Fire Protection

Rural/Metro provides comprehensive fire protection services, including fire suppression, fire prevention, and public education. The company operates its own fleet of fire engines and employs trained firefighters to respond to emergencies.

Emergency Medical Services

The company is a major provider of emergency medical services, offering both basic and advanced life support. Rural/Metro operates a fleet of ambulances equipped with the latest medical technology to ensure rapid and effective response to medical emergencies.

An ambulance similar to those used by Rural/Metro

Operations

Rural/Metro operates in numerous states across the U.S., with a significant presence in Arizona, Tennessee, and Alabama. The company employs thousands of personnel, including firefighters, paramedics, and administrative staff, to support its operations.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many private service providers, Rural/Metro has faced challenges and controversies, particularly regarding its financial stability and the quality of services provided. The company has undergone restructuring and changes in management to address these issues and improve its service delivery.

Acquisition and Restructuring

In 2015, Rural/Metro was acquired by American Medical Response, a subsidiary of Envision Healthcare. This acquisition was part of a strategic move to consolidate services and improve operational efficiency. The restructuring aimed to enhance the quality of services and expand the company's reach.

Related pages

• Emergency medical services in the United States
• Fire department
• Private ambulance service