We provide medical coverage of many large public gatherings each year. We may offer EMS coverage for some smaller events, but we're not able to offer coverage for all events. Regardless, we will be there quickly for any emergent need at any special event in Wake County with a call to 9-1-1.
For Private Event Organizers
Submit this Request Form at least two weeks prior. It's never too early to request a date.
Questions? Event maps? Email EMSevents@wake.gov.
See important coverage information and fee schedule below.
For Law Enforcement and Fire Agencies
Public Safety agencies requesting EMS standby for training, physical agility or hiring events should make a request at the beginning of their planning process.
Weekend events require a minimum of one month notice, and weekday events require a minimum of 2 weeks notice. It's never too early to request.
Avoid dates that include major public events in Wake County.
To make a request for EMS standby, complete this brief Request Form.
Important Information on Special Event EMS Coverage
There are more events in Wake County than we can cover without negatively impacting 9-1-1 operations. We consider the following criteria in determining whether we will offer EMS coverage:
- 2,500+ event participants
- High risk factors for participants
- Total event crowd size
- Traffic impedance caused by the event (e.g., major road closures)
- Availability of EMS personnel
- Impact of the event on 9-1-1 operations
If We Are Able To Offer Coverage
We will determine what type of EMS resources we need to cover the event (ambulances, bike team, cart, supervisor, etc.). Those are operational decisions that we make based on what we determine is needed to provide coverage.
If you make your request through the online form, you will receive a form confirming dedicated EMS coverage for your event, the type of EMS resources used, and an estimate of the total costs, which are based on rates set by the Wake County commissioners.
In most cases we will mail an invoice after the event. Non-recurring single events require pre-payment based on estimated costs prior to the event.
Unfortunately, we are unable to donate services for nonprofit and/or fundraising events.
EMS special event coverage is intended for individual patient evaluation, treatment and/or transportation to an emergency department.
It is beyond the scope of EMS to provide "first aid station" services such as mass supply of pain medicine for headaches, multiple ice packs or elastic bandages, other medical supply handouts, bottled water, etc.
Coverage Fee Schedule
Ambulance, two staff: $175/hour
Bike or Cart Team, two staff: $141/hour
Venue Foot Team, two staff: $102/hour
A supervisor or single staff coverage: $78/hour
EMS coverage types are posted to publish hourly rates for a given asset. EMS will evaluate the venue, the activity, and operational logistics to determine which assets are used based on a tactical approach to providing EMS coverage.
Organizers should anticipate a 3% rate increase each July 1.
The above rates were updated on July 1, 2022.
Questions?
Candice Carter
Special Events Coordinator
919-856-6017
candice.carter@wake.gov