The East Fork Fire Protection District has partnered with Rural Medevac Alliance, Inc., operating as Battle Born Medevac, to launch East Fork Air 12, a new medical helicopter program designed to enhance emergency services throughout Douglas County and neighboring communities.
The helicopter will operate 24/7 out of East Fork Fire Station 12 at 3620 N. Sunridge Drive in Carson City.
The base location allows for streamlined coordination between ground and air crews, helping to ensure faster response to critical incidents.
Air 12 officially went live Tuesday at 10 a.m., according to a social media post from East Fork Fire, which described the launch as “the start of another new chapter” and said they are “beyond excited to add another critical resource to rural Nevada.”
Initially, the helicopter will be staffed by a flight nurse and a flight paramedic from Rural Medevac Alliance.
In the coming months, East Fork firefighter/flight paramedics will begin working alongside Battle Born flight nurses. The integrated staffing model is expected to strengthen training and improve collaboration between the agencies.
Officials say the program brings a range of benefits, including faster access to emergency medical care in remote areas, support for interfacility patient transfers, search and rescue capabilities in difficult terrain, and added resources for wildfire response. It’s also expected to improve ambulance availability by reducing strain on ground units.
The partnership is established through a five-year agreement with automatic renewal. Rural Medevac Alliance will cover the cost of three firefighter/paramedic positions dedicated to the program. Planned upgrades at Station 12 will support the air service without any added financial burden to the fire district.
Fire officials say the partnership reflects a forward-thinking approach to emergency services by combining resources and expertise. It underscores the district’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and high-quality service for both residents and visitors.
(East Fork Fire Protection District contributed to this story.)
