OFallonTV – Paramedics in St. Charles County are among the first in the region to debut a new style of ambulance — one completely redesigned with the safety of patients and rescuers in mind.
In the new units, the patient compartment is equipped with a uniquely-designed attendant’s chair in which the attending Paramedic will sit restrained in a multi-point harness. The orientation of the chair to the stretcher enables the rescuer to, in most situations, provide patient care while secured. The new design represents a major shift from traditional bench-style seating.
Equipment most commonly used by Paramedics is stored in drawers that can be accessed from the chair, and the revised layout enables other equipment to be securely stored during transport. The units were designed using the Department of Highway Safety’s national framework for ambulance safety.
“We’re thrilled to be among the first in the region to transition to these safety-focused units,” said St. Charles County Ambulance District [SCCAD] Chief Taz Meyer, “In the event of a collision, swerve or sudden stop, their features dramatically reduce the risk of injury for patients and Paramedics.”
SCCAD will place two of the newly-designed ambulances in service next week, bringing the total number on the road in St. Charles County to three. Additional safety ambulances will be added in the coming years as older ambulances are retired from the District’s fleet of 32 advanced life support units.
Despite the numerous safety features of the new units, it is important to highlight the fact that there is no substitute for cautious driving when ambulances and other emergency vehicles are approaching. Carefully pull to the shoulder of the road, and wait for all vehicles to pass before re-entering the roadway.
