Winnipeg, MB - New power stretcher systems will soon take away the need for patients to be manually lifted in and out of ambulances, significantly reducing the risk of injury to Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service members.
Following a successful trial in two ambulances, the City of Winnipeg announced today that all City ambulances will now be equipped with power stretcher systems.
“I would like to thank the Manitoba Government for their partnership in our community’s health,” said Councillor Jeff Browaty, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services. “This innovative new tool will be an immensely positive addition to assist our front-line men and women of the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic service to do their important work saving lives in Winnipeg.”
Paramedics experience frequent injuries due to repetitive actions such as lifting, lowering, carrying and bending. The power stretcher system improves paramedic and patient safety by supporting the stretcher throughout the loading and unloading process.
"The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is extremely pleased to be able to outfit our entire ambulance fleet with power stretcher systems,” said John Lane, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Chief. “These power stretcher systems represent a significant financial investment and it is our hope that this equipment will result in measurable improvement in the injury rates associated with the lifting and handling of patients in the pre-hospital setting.”
The total cost to outfit the ambulance fleet with power stretcher systems is $318,975.00.