A fire department is the municipal service responsible for fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical response, fire prevention, and public education. Modern fire departments respond to far more than fires: medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents, technical rescues (water, heights, confined spaces), and natural disasters. Fire prevention activities include inspections, plan reviews for new construction, public education, and fire investigation to determine causes. Fire departments may be staffed by career firefighters, volunteers, or a combination. Department organization includes stations strategically located to achieve response time targets, specialized equipment (ladder trucks, rescue vehicles, hazmat units), and trained personnel working 24/7 shifts. Fire services represent a significant portion of municipal budgets. Service levels and station locations are determined locally, though provincial standards may apply. Fire departments coordinate with neighbouring municipalities through mutual aid agreements.