New Medic Unit Unveiled: A Boost for Community Safety

Fire Chief James Bonzano kicked off the unveiling of the new medic unit before turning it over to Captain Austin Cucciardo. “This is our new medic unit. It’s a significant investment, and we want to thank the board of supervisors and administration for their support. Special thanks to Alyssa and her crew for their hard work. We know it was tough, but we’re really happy,” said Bonzano.

Fire Chief James Bonzano starts unveiling the new medic unit, expressing gratitude to the Board of Supervisors and administration for their support.

He emphasized the need for the new unit due to the old, sometimes unsafe equipment the team had been using. “This was really needed, and we’re very appreciative,” he added before handing over to Captain Cucciardo, who oversaw much of the work on the new units.

Cucciardo detailed the features of the new 2023 Ford F-450 chassis. “It’s the first of five new units. We chose a gas engine for significant cost savings upfront and reduced maintenance costs,” he explained. The gas engine saved around $15,000 initially and is cheaper to maintain in the long run.

Captain Austin Cucciardo shows the new medic unit to the Board of Supervisors, highlighting its advanced features and the significant improvements over older equipment.

Highlighting the advancements, Cucciardo pointed out the cooling bar that provides 50% more airflow and 30% better temperature regulation, essential for comfort in the back of the ambulance. “Anyone who has been in the back knows how important temperature regulation is,” he said.

One major update is the electronic control screen, both in the front and rear, allowing better operation management. “Teams can control lights and other functions from both ends of the unit, enhancing safety and efficiency,” noted Cucciardo.

The new power load system for stretchers, capable of handling up to 870 pounds, was another significant upgrade. “This system removes the physical strain of lifting stretchers, reducing the risk of injury for our personnel,” Cucciardo said.

The units now feature a four-point harness for improved safety and a liquid spring suspension system for a smoother ride, which is crucial for patient comfort, especially on rough roads. “It significantly improves riding conditions and reduces maintenance costs compared to traditional air ride systems,” Cucciardo explained.

The new medic units will be distributed across various stations, starting with Linden, then Front Royal and North Warren. This rotation system ensures that each station receives the new units efficiently and maintains a reserve fleet for backup.

The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. The investment in new equipment reflects a commitment to safety and efficiency, benefiting the emergency responders and residents.

Special Thanks to Mark Williams, Royal Examiner, for this exclusive video.