Bartlett-Jackson Ambulance -- 2009
The calls for service in 2009 hit a yearly high of 465. In order to keep up with increased costs of fuel, maintenance and other operating cost, we increased our base rate for the first time in many years. The combined increase and call volume allowed us to be in a much better financial situation and we did not spend the budgeted money from the towns of Bartlett and Jackson. We can not accurately predict income so we have requested money from each town to ensure that we can cover expenses for 2010.
We purchased a 2010 PL Custom ambulance and took delivery at the end of December. The old ambulance was sold to Center Conway Fire/EMS for $20,000 which was much more than we would have received in trade.
In 2011 the State of NH Bureau of EMS will be requiring more advanced equipment on all ambulances in order to be licensed. To meet those requirements we purchased a Zoll E Series 12 lead Cardiac Monitor with many adjuncts. We paid $10,000 out of the 2009 budget and will pay the balance from the 2010 budget. The State regulations are set by the State EMS Medical Board and must be implemented regardless of cost to the services. We are pleased to be ahead of the deadline with our state of the art equipment.
When we ordered the new ambulance we included a Stryker power cot and a new stair chair that has a track. Both items are intended to prevent back and/or other injuries to our members when they are lifting and moving patients. The cot was paid for with donation money and the chair was purchased through the operating account. They have proved to be a great asset to our department and the crew loves them.
Our membership continues to grow but there are times when it’s difficult to staff 24/7 with paid/on call volunteers. We have a very diverse group of people as members and we are proud of the professionalism and dedication that we offer our communities. To stay certified at any level requires 72 hours of recertification/continuing education in a 2 year period. This year a refresher course was sponsored by the Region 5 District Board and was held at Conway Fire Station. Several local instructors provided the training for a minimal charge. We appreciate their efforts and hard work! Basic and intermediate level EMTS are required to take computer based tests biannually and the only locations nearby are Conway and Whitefield. All of the above is in addition to answering emergency calls for our towns. Anyone that is interested in being
part of our team, please contact us!
In addition to our members, we are fortunate to have, and truly appreciate, North Conway Ambulance as mutual aid. Although they have been sold to Care Plus Ambulance of Merrimack they continue to provide assistance and backup as needed. SOLO, IME, AMC, NH Fish and Game have been essential in sending expertise in carry out situations and DHART helicopter service has been invaluable for transporting critical patients to trauma hospitals. Thank you all for your help!
Special thanks to Bartlett, Jackson and North Conway Fire Departments, the highway crews and the police departments for all they do and to the town people for your continued support.
Respectfully submitted,
Rick Murnik
Sue Gaudette
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