In August of 1971, the department installed an Emergency Hot Line phone system at the Central Fire Stations Alarm Room. This number allowed citizens to remember only one number for all types of emergencies.
In September of 1971, all firemen hired in the State of Texas had to receive no less than 325 hours of fire-fighting training. Today, The Temple Fire Department requires at least 550 hours the first year. Firefighters are also required to have continuing education hours every year after that for Fire, Haz-Mat, & EMS training to meet state requirements.
On October 18, 1973, at 5 pm, the Temple Fire Department began a new area of service, taking over the ambulance services from Harper Talasek Funeral Home. The home donated its two emergency vehicles to the city, both having been used since 1964.