For many years in the emergency medical services field, the hearse was the vehicle that was most often used as an ambulance, because it was the only vehicle with room enough for a person to lie down. Few supplies were carried on board, and there was little space for attendants.

The hearse-ambulance has gone the way of its horse-drawn predecessor, and ambulances today are designed to strict government regulations based on national standards. The patient compartment has been enlarged, so that it can accommodate two EMTs and two patients on litters. Equipment and supplies are carried to enable emergency medical care at the scene and during transport. Radio communications are provided so that ambulance personnel can speak with the dispatcher, the hospital, public safety authorities, and medical control.

The three ambulances currently owned by the Chatham Emergency Squad are specialty van ambulances with integral cabs and bodies. The newest one is pictured on the right. To see inside, click on the various doors (aside from the driver's compartment) and you will be allowed in for a look.

Our rigs, like all modern ambulances, carry a wide variety of gear for emergency medical care and transport. The following list is just a sample: