Los Angeles rescue squad and fire engines?

Question

Why does a fire engine go along with a rescue squad when it's clearly not needed? For example, if someone has a heart attack in their home.

It just seems like a huge waste of resources.

Answer 1

engines are always sent with a squad because squads, although well equipped, are not completely equipped to manage a patient. they are also sent because they have the Captain (highest ranking firefighter at a station). The Captain fills out all paperwork and gives instruction when needed. Also, 2 paramedics is not usually enough to manage a patient.