Spike in Emergency Medical Calls from Somers Prison Strains Fire Department

A Growing Concern for First Responders

According to Somers Fire Chief John Roache, approximately 25–30% of the department’s emergency medical service (EMS) calls in recent months have come from the correctional facility. Traditionally, prisons have on-site medical staff equipped to handle most routine health issues. However, the growing number of 911 calls suggests a shift in how medical emergencies at the facility are being managed.

“We’re seeing a higher volume of calls for issues that may not necessarily require hospital transport,” Chief Roache said. “It’s not just trauma or life-threatening situations—we’re responding to routine medical complaints that typically wouldn’t warrant an ambulance.”

This increase is stretching the department’s resources thin, particularly during peak hours or when back-to-back calls are received. The fire department, which also covers residential, industrial, and road accident emergencies, now faces challenges in maintaining optimal response times across the board.

Why the Spike in Calls?

Possible Causes Behind the Increase

Several factors could be contributing to the rise in emergency calls from the prison. One potential cause is understaffing or policy changes in the prison’s healthcare system, which may be leading to a greater reliance on external emergency services.

Healthcare within correctional facilities is often managed by third-party providers, and if staff shortages or policy restrictions prevent in-house treatment, inmates may be directed to local emergency services for care that could otherwise be handled internally.

Concerns About System Misuse

There is also speculation that some inmates may misuse the 911 system as a means to leave the facility, especially in non-urgent cases. However, Chief Roache emphasized that the department must treat every call as a legitimate emergency, regardless of the source or suspected intent.

The Financial and Operational Impact

Every time Somers EMS responds to the correctional facility, it incurs both direct and indirect costs—including fuel, staff hours, and potential wear on emergency vehicles. If an ambulance is tied up at the prison for a non-urgent case, it may be unavailable for critical calls elsewhere in the community.

Furthermore, EMS billing is often complex. In many cases, municipalities are left absorbing costs when services are rendered to state-run institutions or uninsured individuals.

Seeking Solutions and Support

Town officials, in coordination with the Connecticut Department of Correction, are beginning discussions to address the trend. One proposed solution involves increasing on-site healthcare resources or establishing a better triage system within the facility to reduce unnecessary emergency calls.

Fire Chief Roache also stressed the need for better coordination and communication between prison medical staff and EMS crews. “We’re not looking to point fingers—we just want to make sure we’re using resources wisely,” he said.

Community Implications

The growing number of prison-related calls not only affects the fire department but also has broader implications for the community. Delays in emergency response times could impact residents in critical situations, such as cardiac arrests, strokes, or accidents.

Residents have voiced concerns at town meetings, expressing support for the fire department while urging state officials to step in and provide relief.

Conclusion

The surge in medical emergency calls from Osborn Correctional Institution is a complex issue involving healthcare policy, public safety logistics, and resource management. While the Somers Fire Department continues to meet the challenge with professionalism and dedication, town and state officials must work collaboratively to develop sustainable solutions. Ensuring the well-being of both inmates and local residents depends on swift, coordinated action to balance demand with capacity in emergency services.