D.W. McMillan Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has added a new vehicle to their fleet. The newly purchased van will assist in inter-facility and hospital transport.
The new Chevrolet type II van is smaller than the normal ambulances making it more economical. The van is expected to be more fuel-efficient and get better gas mileage.
Judy Kirby, D.W. McMillan EMS Director discussed the comfort of riding in the new ambulance.
“In addition to the economic benefits, the new van will allow for a more comfortable ride on long distance transports,” Kirby said. “Because the new ambulance is a shorter wheelbase and weighs much less than a regular ambulance, it absorbs the shock of the road very well.”
The new ambulance is also expected to be used in the event another ambulance in the fleet becomes disabled.
This will prevent the disruption of service to the Brewton area, officials said.
Currently, D.W. McMillan EMS serves 665 square miles on the eastern half of Escambia County.
Once the installation of all necessary medical equipment is complete, the new ambulance should be in service by the end of March.
D.W. McMillan EMS personnel took the opportunity to remind the public to remember to observe safety procedures of pulling off the side of the roadway when an ambulance or other emergency vehicle approaches.
D.W. McMillan Hospital is governed by the Escambia County Healthcare Authority Board and has served the citizens of the community and surrounding area for more than 50 years.