Ukraine Needs Ambulances and Fire Trucks

People stand with an American flag in front of two ambulances.
Photos/U.S. Ambulances for Ukraine

As the Russian Invasion of Ukraine reaches its first anniversary today, efforts have been underway by one group to provide a critically important EMS tool – ambulances. U.S. Ambulances for Ukraine started out as an idea by the daughter of the founder, asking “What could we do to help out the people of Ukraine?” Since then, the program has successfully transported more than 25 ambulances and a fire engine to Ukraine, helping out local hospitals, fire departments, municipalities and military units with these important materials and vehicles. 

I recently visited Ukraine to assist with the delivery of six ambulances and the fire engine. It was an amazing trip and the people of Ukraine are incredibly thankful for the medical supplies, equipment and vehicles that have been furnished so far. Throughout our drive through Ukraine, you could see the devastation caused by the war, checkpoints along the major highways and damaged and destroyed buildings and roads. At night, the cities are dark and electricity is not always available. Generators are present everywhere to run businesses and homes. The people of Ukraine remain optimistic and upbeat – hopeful that with enough international support, they can regain their territory and their freedom. 

Since the invasion, Ukrainian EMS has taken huge losses in their facilities, equipment, vehicles and supplies. Russian forces routinely target medical infrastructure and vehicles. What they cannot steal and ship back, they destroy. It is currently estimated that over 400 ambulances have been destroyed or stolen since the beginning of the conflict. In the next few weeks, Russian forces are expected to begin their Spring offensive and this means more damage and more casualties.

If your program has a recently retired or second-line unit in good mechanical condition, U.S. Ambulances for Ukraine is looking for emergency vehicles to send to Ukraine. With help from a variety of partners, sponsors and the public, the vehicles and equipment are transported via ship from the U.S. to Poland, then driven across the border to Ukraine, where they are issued to various entities to support the fight against Russia. 

For more information contact Brian Kliesen bkliesen@hotmail.com.

Howland (OH) Fire Department Expands Ambulance Fleet

The Howland Fire Department, the busiest fire-based emergency medical service provider in Trumbull County, has expanded its ambulance fleet thanks to federal funding. Using funds…

CO Legislation Targets Balance Billing for Public Ambulance Calls

Colorado lawmakers are moving forward with a bill that would curtail public ambulances from balance billing patients for services.