The Arizona City Fire District was busier than usual last month, affected by the pandemic as it received 255 calls, which is double the number of calls it typically receives during that time.
Fire Chief Jeff Heaton told the district board during its monthly meeting on Monday that although the number of calls has doubled, the team continues to have a less than four-minute response time.
Heaton added that the district has seen an increase in COVID-19-related calls from people having difficulty breathing and chest pains, to having to transports patients with COVID-19.
He also mentioned that Gov. Doug Ducey had shared information with all the first responder department leaders and fire chiefs about Arizona being the leading state for COVID-19 per capita.
“The governor is now looking for additional action that he may take to help us with that as we move forward,” Heaton said.