Sterling Heights launches first-of-its-kind EMS program to improve emergency response times
It’s encouraging to see more communities transforming their EMS delivery systems using evidence-based research.
While the concept of triaging 911 EMS requests based on effective emergency medical dispatch (EMD) processes, with appropriate medical oversight and quality assurance, using evidence-based protocols is not new, it’s encouraging to see more agencies beginning to use these tools to send the right resource, to the right patient, in the right time – keeping ALS resources available for high acuity calls.
Programs like these also help enhance clinical performance for ALS and BLS clinicians, improve operational effectiveness, and help make EMS systems more financially sustainable!
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Sterling Heights launches first-of-its-kind EMS program to improve emergency response times
The Peak Demand program uses a color-coded priority system to ensure appropriate resources respond to 911 calls, taking pressure off paramedics for critical emergencies
By: Peter Maxwell
Oct 07, 2025
STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. (WXYZ) — The Sterling Heights Fire Department has launched a new technology-driven emergency response program designed to save lives by ensuring the right resources reach emergencies faster.
The EMS Peak Demand program is the first of its kind in metro Detroit and comes in response to a sharp increase in 911 calls throughout the area.
The new system has already shown promising results since launching eight days ago.
“This program has been up and running for 8 days. They took about 39 calls in those 8 days, and that equates to 8 percent of the call volume,” said Kevin Edmond, Sterling Heights Fire Department chief.
The EMS Peak Demand units are staffed with four newly hired EMT firefighters and are designed to take pressure off Sterling Heights Advanced Life Support units.
“By sending these people out on the low basic calls, we keep our paramedics available for the heart attacks, strokes, trauma, and breathing difficulties,” Edmond said.
The system determines which EMS unit responds based on information provided to dispatchers, with the goal of alleviating strain on critical resources.
“It’s helping our call takers determine what response unit to deploy to that call,” said Angela Elsey, Macomb County dispatch director.
Dispatchers assess calls through a color-coded priority scale using red, blue, yellow, and green classifications. Red and blue calls are reserved for the most critical emergencies and Advanced Life Support units, while yellow and green calls are handled by Peak Demand EMS units.
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel called the new program a game-changer.
“It cuts down in deficiency and the unnecessary nature of some vehicles going that don’t need to be there by making sure it’s the right vehicle that’s going,” Hackel said.
Sterling Heights resident Bashar Metti supports the new program and believes it will benefit the entire community.