Newton MA FD - 482.9625R is main channel

heard over the air yesterday on 482.9625 R

482.9625 R is the main channel - all calls are announced on this
channel and all units operate on this channel enroute and onscene and
rtq

dispatches are proceeded by 1 tone - each call is announced twice
verbally by a real human being - cross streets and nearest boxes are
given for each call

private ambulances are also taking 911 calls on this channel

Medic 3 is north side

Medic 4 is south side

all units acknowledge calls verbally via the radio

typical response to a medical call is 1 engine and 1 medic unit / ambulance

central station alarm from a house for a gas alarm got 1 engine and 1 ladder

a straight CO alarm got 1 ladder - the ladder was cancelled when a
closer engine cleared up and took the call

not sure if they still beep fire boxes - didnt hear any boxes come in
while we were listening

ambulances tell the dispatcher when they are taking a patient to a
hospital - they might also announce their arrival at the hospital -
maybe not - not sure / dont remember exactly

the dispatcher IDs as Fire Alarm

they dont use the 'pick up mike and start talking immediately' procedure