New disaster bus, trailers added to AHS EMS fleet

Resources can be deployed anywhere in the province

Story by Francis Silvaggio; photo by ShellyWillsey

Alberta Heath Services’ Emergency Medical Services (AHS EMS) is now better equipped to care for patients during disaster with a new multi-patient bus and 10 mobile disaster trailers.

When emergencies happen, Albertans count on AHS EMS to be there to help. The new tools enhance AHS’ ability to provide high-quality patient care during even the largest of emergencies.

The new resources were made possible by an AHS emergency/disaster stockpile grant.

The new 40-ft. multi-patient bus replaces a retro-converted 1983 Orion bus that provided invaluable support during the Slave Lake fires and the southern Alberta floods.

The new bus is equipped to provide care to as many as 13 patients and carry up to five stretchers. It can also be used as a mobile immunizations clinic, treatment centre, debriefing room, command post or support centre.

While the new bus will be based in Edmonton, it can be quickly deployed to respond to emergencies across the province and can also support pre-planned, large-scale events, such as mass gatherings, shows, parades, rodeos, concerts and other community-based events.

The 10, 14-ft. disaster response trailers will be strategically located across Alberta to help deliver emergency care in urban, rural and remote areas of the province.

Each trailer includes an inflatable 300-sq.-ft. heated shelter, medical equipment and supplies to manage up to 25 patients for 10 hours.

Watch for the new resources at community events throughout the spring and summer beginning May 9 at Disaster Preparedness Week events in Calgary and Edmonton.