A major shake-up in local fire protection is underway in Victor, but officials say residents won’t see any interruption in emergency service.
The Town of Victor has released a short-term plan to cover fire and EMS calls following the upcoming dissolution of the Fishers Fire District.
The plan, set to begin October 1, will shift responsibility to a network of nearby departments, including the Victor Fire District, Bushnell’s Basin Fire Department, Farmington Volunteer Fire Association, Henrietta Fire District, Fishers Volunteer Fire Association, and Victor-Farmington Ambulance.
Task force formed to manage the transition
A Transition Task Force has been created to oversee the move. It includes representatives from town government, partnering fire departments, ambulance services, and legal and financial advisors. The group will meet monthly to review response times, coverage gaps, and long-term planning.
Fire coverage will expand
Both the Victor and Bushnell’s Basin fire departments will take on new territories under newly formed fire protection districts. They’ll work together to update response zones and ensure coverage using existing fire stations when possible.
The plan also addresses coverage along the NYS Thruway (I-90) and I-490, assigning responsibilities to five departments based on territory.
EMS coverage to remain in place
Victor-Farmington Ambulance will continue handling EMS calls and will station a full-time ambulance crew at 380 High Street every day from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
For the most serious calls, local fire departments will provide first response backup. Mutual aid agreements with surrounding EMS providers will remain in place.
Ownership of assets still pending
The town is working with the State Comptroller to determine how to handle fire stations, trucks, equipment, and land formerly owned by the Fishers Fire District. Victor will also take on maintenance and insurance responsibilities for those assets.
Public feedback encouraged
Victor residents can send questions or concerns to [email protected]. A public information meeting and hearing are scheduled for September 8.
By October 1, the town expects to have formal fire protection agreements in place and full coverage up and running.
Officials say this transition marks the start of a more regional approach to emergency response, with agencies working across boundaries to send the closest available help.
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