June 19, 2006

The Manitoba government has completed the replacement of fleet ambulances across the province, Health Minister Tim Sale announced today.

"The province has invested more than $15 million in 160 new ambulances to upgrade emergency services in Manitoba," said Sale. "The new ambulances not only save dollars, but provide better care sooner and closer to home for thousands of Manitobans."

The fleet was replaced over a period of five years, with 60 ambulances purchased in 2001 and 80 more purchased between 2002 and 2005.

The current fleet ambulance program was developed in 2001 to provide the safest-possible fleet of ambulances by introducing ambulance standards and reducing purchase and vehicle operation costs.

Improved safety and design features in the new ambulances include:

• crash-stable defibrillators and compressed-gas mounts which ensure equipment stability in the event of a collision,

• advanced safety features such as a safety-net restraint system for paramedics working in the back of ambulances,

• increased visibility features such as reflective decaling and an advanced lighting package, and

• an improved environmental system with two heaters in the patient compartment to improve the recovery temperatures of the compartment in cold weather, ensuring paramedic and patient comfort.

Approximately $3.2 million has been saved through a bulk purchase initiative with estimated savings of $20,000 to $23,000 per vehicle. Maintenance and fuel purchase agreements further reduce upkeep costs by 10 per cent or more. The program also provides well-equipped, standardized vehicles to provide consistent care.

"Ambulances are designed to meet the specific needs of emergency service staff who provide safe and quality medical care to thousands of Manitobans every year," said Sale. "Strong emergency health care helps save lives. The complete replacement of our fleet will certainly help emergency health-care providers do their jobs and continue to provide life-saving care to Manitobans."

The final 20 ambulances will be delivered to regional health authorities later this month.

- 30 -