Elgin EMTs Add An Ambulance

In recent weeks, the Elgin Rescue unit has added to its rescue arsenal. According to local EMT member Vicki Miller, the purchase has been long in the making.
“Discussion was held about 2 years ago to look for a new unit,” she said.  “But, with our low personnel numbers, we couldn’t see spending $200,000.00 to purchase a new unit. We thought we had a used one available but they sold it to a neighboring department.”
So the Elgin department began the search process.
“We saw an ad asking for a bid on a 2002 Road Rescue unit.  We voted to submit a bid for $40,000.00,” Miller said. Fortunately for the department, their bid was accepted.
Once the purchase was made, a thorough once-over was needed to be sure it was in “ready to roll” condition.
“We had FireFox (FireFox Rescue Equipment of York) go through it to make sure everything worked and to install a radio,” Miller continued.
The additional work from FireFox cost the department about $5,000.00 according to Miller.
Additional Equipment Pur-chased
The department’s needs go beyond the ambulance. They also need to be current on the equipment within the ambulance.
“When looking into purchasing a power lift cot, we were introduced to a power load which basically loads the cot and patient without much actual lifting,” Miller explained.  This is beneficial to the patient and the crew. “This will help save backs and allow the women on the unit to be able to load with needing ‘man power.’”
Nothing is free and the cost of the power load is quite steep.  Miller noted recently donated funds will help ease the financial load. “The Elgin Community Foundation has given us a grant of $3,000.00 but any donations are certainly welcome. A recent donation from the Bargain Box will be used to help purchase the power load,” she said.
The Elgin City Council has also approved giving the department sales tax funds for a new stair chair.  The stair chair helps transfer the patient from tight quarters and stairs.
The advantages of having two rescue units equipped appropriately are tremendous. “By having the same equipment in two reliable units,” Miller adds,  “(it) allows us to better serve the community.”
Funds are always needed in order to keep the Elgin Rescue Department current with their rescue needs. For more information on how you can help in any way, contact Miller at the Elgin City Hall.