Automatic Aid Agreement Signed by Fire Departments

In a landmark initiative to enhance regional emergency response capabilities, Doña Ana County and the New Mexico State University Fire Department, the City of Sunland Park, the City of Las Cruces, the NASA/White Sands Test Facility and the Town of Mesilla have signed an Automatic Aid Agreement for fire services.

This collaborative agreement aims to streamline and improve fire response times across jurisdictions, ensuring quicker and more efficient emergency services for all residents and facilities within the region.

The automatic aid agreement was officially signed on Aug. 27, 2024, at the Las Cruces Fire Department Training and Logistics building, marking a significant step in the collective effort to bolster public safety and emergency preparedness. The agreement formalizes the commitment of each participating entity to provide automatic aid in fire response operations, effectively pooling resources and expertise to address structure fires, cardiac arrest and mass casualty incidents more effectively.

Under the agreement, when a building fire occurs in any of the participating jurisdictions, the closest available resources will be dispatched automatically and regardless of jurisdictional boundaries. The new approach enhances the speed of responses and maximizes the use of specialized equipment and personnel.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

• Enhanced Response Times: Immediate dispatch of the closest available fire resources reducing response times and potentially limiting damage and loss of life.
• Resource Sharing: Access to specialized equipment and trained personnel across all participating entities optimizing overall operational effectiveness.
• Improved Coordination: Streamlined communication and operational procedures between fire departments ensuring a cohesive and efficient response to emergencies.

Dona Ana County Fire Chief Shannon Cherry, Sunland Park Fire Chief Daniel Medrano, City of Las Cruces Fire Chief Jason Smith, New Mexico State University Fire Chief Johnny Carrillo, NASA/WSTF Fire Deputy Chief Jimmy Herrera, and Town of Mesilla Fire Chief Greg Whited expressed their enthusiasm for the agreement, highlighting its significance in advancing community safety and fostering interagency collaboration.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from each participating jurisdiction, including local government officials and emergency management personnel, all of whom underscored the importance of this collective effort.

This historic agreement marks a new era in regional fire service operations, setting a precedent for future collaboration and innovation in emergency management.