Adding two new power stretchers might not seem like a major change, but Middletown firefighters say the move could save lives.
Around Christmastime, the department took delivery of two new Ford heavy-duty rescue wagons, which were both equipped with the automated Stryker stretchers to carry patients from point A to B — usually to Newport Hospital.
Fire Chief Peter Faerber said the stretchers have been a bigger benefit than anyone could have imagined.
Not only will they spare firefighters potential injuries, but Faerber said they also free up personnel on emergency calls where valuable minutes matter.
“It’s one of those things people don’t think about a lot, but it has been a big difference for us,” Faerber said. “It’s freeing up time and personnel to better do their jobs.”