The aim of the Fire Service is to reduce the threats to people, property and the environment by rapidly responding to fires, rescues, and hazardous materials incidents within six minutes, 90 per cent of the time. The aim is also to be adequately prepared to take a lead role in disaster mitigation. Of particular importance to the department's aims is to deliver a vibrant, energetic and effective community prevention and education program that focuses on Medicine Hat being truly a safe community.

To achieve the aims, the Fire Service plans and maintains a multi-million dollar inventory of equipment, administers a vibrant training program for its members and delivers a wide range of public services. It responds to an average of 1,200 calls per year including responses to Cypress County under a formalized fire protection agreement.