Ocean Shores Fire Department is proud to introduce a new ambulance into its fleet of emergency medical vehicles
The Ocean Shores Fire Department is proud to introduce a new ambulance into its fleet of emergency medical vehicles. The department recently took possession of the 2020 Dodge Ram apparatus few weeks ago and now is able to place it into service.
The new ambulance is a copy of the last ambulance purchased in 2017, with the addition of new features unique to our community. For example, foldable steps have been installed on the back of the vehicle to allow personnel to climb to the roof of the ambulance box, which provides better viewing potential for surf rescue victims.
This purchase was made possible by using funds through the Washington Health Authority’s Ground Emergency Medical Transportation program. GEMT was passed in the 2016-16 legislative session and generates thousands of dollars in federal money to reimburse fire agencies in the state – in whole or in part – for the high costs of transporting patients.
The Ocean Shores City Council approved the purchase of the ambulance at a meeting in October 2019.
The journey of this ambulance to our station had a few bumps in the road. The new ambulance was originally intended to replace a 16-year-old apparatus. However, during production another ambulance in our fleet experienced engine issues that would have required a complete and costly replacement. That ambulance, about 14 years old, was taken out of service and the older ambulance will remain a part of our contingent of emergency medical vehicles.
With the addition of the new apparatus, OSFD will boast four ambulances in addition to our structure and woodland fire vehicles.
ABOUT THE OCEAN SHORES FIRE DEPARTMENT
OSFD has 21 career personnel including one chief officer, an administrative assistant, a fire inspector, 12 firefighter/paramedics and six firefighter/EMTs on a rotating schedule. The department is staffed by career personnel 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Additional personnel consists of volunteer members.
The department owns four ambulances, four engines, one ladder truck and several wildland/beach vehicles in its emergency vehicle fleet.
In 2019, the department responded to about 2,500 calls for service. Approximately 85 percent of the 911 calls are for emergency medicine services. The department also performs community assistance, such as helping to replace batteries in smoke detectors.