Tucson Fire responded to nearly 50,000 calls in first half of 2026

Tucson Fire responded to nearly 50,000 incidents from January through June 2026, an average of about 275 calls per day. That was roughly 8,000 fewer incidents than during the same period last year.

The department says its deployment changes helped reduce the number of units sent to some calls. Nearly every unit now has a paramedic, allowing crews to assess and treat some patients on scene before deciding whether a hospital visit is needed. TFD also offers MD Ally, a telehealth service that connects some 911 callers with a doctor and may help avoid unnecessary fire truck and emergency room visits.

About 44,000 of the incidents were related to emergency medical services, while approximately 5,900 were nonmedical calls. TFD also handled just over 3,000 fire related calls, including 75 structure fires, 321 brush fires and 113 outside fires.

The department reported 76,016 total unit dispatches during the six month period, nearly 19,000 fewer than last year. Officials said response times are currently around nine minutes, compared with a goal of about five minutes and 20 seconds for most calls. TFD also says staffing remains below desired levels and is continuing recruitment efforts.