Cottage Grove operates a police department, fire department, and ambulance service under a public safety concept. This means the three distinct service divisions of police, fire, and emergency medical services are merged into one operational and management team; the end result being a team of people meeting and exceeding the goals and mission of the public safety organization. This type of organizational structure provides the public with seamless coordinated services from all divisions. Inherent in such a system is superior service delivery to the community.

Cottage Grove is also somewhat unique in that we provide emergency medical services (E.M.S. - Paramedic Ambulance Service), utilizing police officer paramedics and fire fighter paramedics in a joint service. Currently 2/3 of the patrol division are paramedics as are two of the firefighters. Our paid on call firefighters also work hand in hand with the paramedics providing the much needed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) component of our total EMS service. Our commitment to quality patient care is the cornerstone of our EMS service delivery.

As a Public Safety Agency, we are committed to providing the highest quality of services in our police, fire and emergency medical services divisions. Our agency is staffed with dedicated high caliber employees who value and carry out our city's commitment to Community Policing. Central to this commitment is meaningful citizen participation and ongoing improvement in the quality and consistency of services we provide to the citizens and visitors to our community.

To the citizens of Cottage Grove, we ask for and need your involvement. Community Policing is not just a commitment from the police; it is an invitation to the entire community to join us in keeping our city safe. There are many ways each person can make a difference; organize your block, get involved in your children's schools, volunteer to work with one of the many organizations within the city dedicated to protecting our children and strengthening our community. To get involved, contact your Neighborhood Policing Team or call our Community Affairs Officer. We need your help.