Sierra Vista Fire and EMS has recently upgraded its fleet with two new ambulances, replacing older models that were nearing the end of their life cycle. According to Battalion Chief Matt Irlmeier, these new ambulance units are the first in the city’s fleet to feature the Stryker Power-LOAD system. This system supports the cot during the loading and unloading of patients, significantly reducing the physical strain on EMS personnel and minimizing the number of personnel required for these tasks. By alleviating the weight burden on paramedics, the system helps prevent cumulative trauma injuries, particularly to the spinal cord.
The new ambulances are equipped with a range of advanced life support equipment. Notably, they include a mechanical CPR device, which performs chest compressions on patients, thereby freeing up EMS personnel to attend to other critical care tasks simultaneously. Additionally, the units are outfitted with a transport ventilator, intravenous administration pump, cardiac monitor, and other essential medical tools.
A unique feature of these ambulances is the locker in the upper rear cabinet, which allows paramedics to access equipment from both inside and outside the vehicle. This design ensures that whether crews are at the scene of an emergency or en route to the hospital, necessary equipment is easily accessible. The ambulances also have two refrigerated compartments to keep different medications at their required temperatures.
Sierra Vista Fire and EMS operates three combination fire and EMS stations and one EMS substation. One of the new ambulance units will replace the current ambulance at Station 1 on Fry Boulevard. Built in 1974, Station 1 is the city’s first and original fire station and is home to Engine 201 and Medic 201. The second new unit will replace the existing ambulance at Station 4, home to Medic 204, on 7th Street, near Buffalo Soldier Trail. This EMS substation, which opened in the fall of 2022, was partially funded by a $1.4 million Defense Community Infrastructure Program grant from the Department of Defense Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation.
Comments