Dallas Fire Rescue expands lifesaving blood transfusion program with new emergency equipment
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Fire-Rescue Department is expanding its emergency medical capabilities through new equipment that will allow first responders to deliver lifesaving blood transfusions directly at emergency scenes. The enhancement is made possible through a donation from Safer Dallas Better Dallas, a public safety nonprofit supporting initiatives that improve community safety.
Officials say the donation will significantly strengthen the department’s ability to provide emergency blood transfusions in the field — a critical intervention for trauma victims experiencing severe blood loss.
Expanded blood program improves survival chances
With the addition of three military-grade, temperature-controlled coolers, blood-warming units, and specialized tubing, Dallas Fire-Rescue will now deploy seven EMS supervisors equipped with blood during every shift. The specialized equipment ensures blood can be safely stored, transported, and administered under emergency conditions.
Providing blood at the scene can be the difference between life and death for patients suffering traumatic injuries, major accidents, or critical medical emergencies. Early transfusions help stabilize patients before they reach the hospital, improving survival outcomes.
In addition to the program expansion, department leaders will present an update on the initiative’s first-year milestones. The review will highlight key success metrics and demonstrate the measurable impact that pre-hospital blood transfusions have had on patient survival rates throughout Dallas.
Justin Ball of Dallas Fire-Rescue and John Forest of Safer Dallas Better Dallas are scheduled to discuss the expansion and program achievements during a briefing at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The event will take place at Dallas City Hall in the Flag Room, located at 1500 Marilla St.
City officials say the enhanced program reflects Dallas’ commitment to advancing emergency medical care and equipping first responders with tools that improve patient outcomes. By expanding access to rapid transfusion capabilities, Dallas Fire-Rescue continues to strengthen its frontline response and deliver advanced care when seconds matter most.
