Emergency Medical Services

EMS Division Chief - Steven Criste 

Steven Criste Promotion  Captain/Paramedic Steven Criste was promoted to Emergency Medical Services Division Chief for the Salinas Fire Department on January 20, 2025. Since joining the department in 2011—following his service with the Monterey County Regional Fire District—Chief Criste has distinguished himself as a leader in emergency medical services, setting a high standard for paramedics throughout both the department and the region. His passion for EMS and dedication to mentorship have played a key role in developing the next generation of firefighter/paramedics and in strengthening the department’s tradition of exceptional fire-based EMS delivery.

Chief Criste’s involvement in the Tactical Paramedic Program and his close working relationships with the Salinas Police Department have further enhanced interagency collaboration and response capabilities. As he steps into this leadership role, the department looks forward to continued innovation, excellence, and strong community partnerships under his guidance.

About the Division

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division is responsible for the training, support, and oversight of the Salinas Fire Department’s licensed Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians. Every fire engine and truck company in the City of Salinas is equipped and staffed to deliver Advanced Life Support (ALS) services, ensuring rapid, high-quality medical care at the scene of an emergency.

As a vital component of public safety, the EMS Division is dedicated to delivering compassionate, skilled, and efficient pre-hospital care. The division also prioritizes cost-effective operations and the safety of both patients and first responders. Through continuous improvement and a commitment to excellence, EMS plays a critical role in protecting the health and well-being of our community.

Below are some of the key functions and responsibilities of the EMS Division within our department.

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SWAT Tactical Paramedics

The Salinas Fire Department created the Tactical Paramedic program in 2014. The paramedics in this program provide medical support to the Salinas Police Department SWAT team during high-risk operations. This is in addition to their regular duty of responding to 9-1-1 calls for medical services on a fire engine. Tactical Paramedics have received specialized training and equipment which allows them to operate in law enforcement “Hot Zones”. By doing this, the paramedics can provide life-saving measures in faster response times during violent, or potentially violent, incidents. Examples of these types of calls include active shooter incidents, hostage situations, standoffs with barricaded suspects, and high-risk warrant services. Due to the nature of these incidents, Tactical Paramedics must remain in peak physical condition and regularly participate in advanced training.  

SWAT Medic   Swat Training   SWAT Vehicle

2024 Tactical Paramedicine Facts

  • Medic Squad 3 was deployed 42 times in 2024
  • Participated in the update for the Monterey County Active Shooter Policy
  • Tactical Paramedics taught 24 SPD Swat Team members Tactical EMS training

Award of Merit

Award of Merit  Three SWAT Tactical Medics of the Salinas Fire Department were awarded the "Award of Merit", by the Monterey County Police Officers Association. This acknowledgment was a result of their brave actions during the Sun Street/May 31st shooting incident involving Monterey County Sheriff's Office Deputy, Jesse Grant. 

Pictured from left to right: EMS Division Chief Steven Criste, Captain/Paramedic Nick Thomas, Deputy Fire Chief Shane Vander Veen

 

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