AMR Adds New 4x4 Ambulances To SMC Fleet

HALF MOON BAY, CA — San Mateo County's emergency services provider is preparing to roll out three new ambulances equipped with four-wheel drive to help paramedics access hard-to-reach areas and more comfortably accommodate patients.

County officials requested the additions from American Medical Response (AMR), which acquired three custom-built Ford F-450's. According to the county, the new vehicles will improve lifesaving abilities along the coast and in communities west of Skyline Boulevard in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

"In rural areas, muddy or washed-out private roads and driveways, road debris and other obstacles can make it difficult to get lifesaving equipment into place," the county said in a news release. "Off-road capabilities can help ambulance crews get closer to patients to deliver care in some situations and make travel in challenging conditions safer and more comfortable."

In addition to the four-wheel drive capability, the new ambulances are equipped with a hydraulic rear suspension, allowing the patient compartment to lower for moving patients in and out of the vehicle. On top of helping crews safely reach difficult areas, county leaders said the ambulances will also prove helpful during weather events.

"We're looking forward to the introduction of new 4x4 ambulances within the local EMS system," said Travis Kusman, the county's director of Emergency Medical Services. "With the winter storms and sometimes challenging road conditions, having a high-clearance, four-wheel drive ambulance can improve access to care as well as enhance safety and comfort for patients and crew."

Officials said the cost of the new ambulances was offset by an equipment upgrade program through AMR, replacing three older two-wheel drive ambulances. Crews will train on the first vehicle, which is scheduled to roll out on the Coastside in April.