Four newly manufactured ambulances arrived in Reading recently to replace the current fleet which is worn by heavy use. The units are Traumahawk model Type III ambulances with a super duty E450 style chassis made by American Emergency Vehicles of Jefferson, NC.
The ambulances are 18" longer than the current ones and are equipped with a number of components designed to reduce strain on personnel that will be operating them, including a slightly roomier patient compartment. One upgrade that no one can seem to get used to is the extra decaling on the rear of the units. Deputy Chief, Conrad, head of the EMS Division, said that the new striping will be required on all ambulances soon so the city units will be in compliance once the new requirements take effect.
This is the second full fleet of apparatus made for the City since it took over Emergency Medical Services once again in 2001, Chief Conrad noted that five years was the typical life expectancy for ambulances used as hard as Reading's. The City leases the ambulances.
The new ambulances will see service as soon as they are finished being prepared, radios have to be installed and they need to be stocked.
Thanks to Lt. R. Wentzel for sending us these photos and to Chief J. Conrad for the information.
Some more photos sent to us by Chief Conrad, thanks to Dave Sassaman from American Emergency Vehicles for allowing us to share them.
