For Immediate Release

Thursday, Aug. 10, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Video: Georgetown Fire Department Installs New Stretchers With Automated Loading Capabilities

GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred A. Mitchell is pleased to announce that the Georgetown Fire Department has installed and begun using new automated stretcher loading devices in its two ambulances.

The autoloader allows firefighters to automatically lower and lift stretchers into and out of the ambulances, easing the stress on first responders’ backs that results from repeatedly carrying the heavy equipment.

With the device, stretchers can now be placed inside the ambulance at the push of a button and then inserted into the vehicle along a track that keeps it securely fastened to the floor of the truck, enhancing patient safety in the unlikely event of a crash en route to the hospital.

The autoloader was purchased using capital improvement money approved at Annual Town Meeting and comes at no direct cost to the taxpayers.

“The whole department is excited to have this new technology available to us,” Chief Mitchell said. “This is a huge safety improvement for firefighters and patients alike.”

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