UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As one of the oldest and largest collegiate ambulance services in the nation, Penn State’s University Ambulance Service has added a new branded emergency vehicle to its fleet.
The UAS is part of University Health Services, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, and is staffed by certified students and staff EMTs (emergency medical technicians). Since 1956, it has served University Park and other Penn State properties.
Currently, UAS has a total of three ambulances; adding this new emergency vehicle will bring the total to four on campus. This new emergency vehicle is the first Type II ambulance at University Park. The smaller size of this ambulance will allow the team to maneuver more easily throughout campus. The new ambulance is outfitted with a Stryker Power-PRO 2 cot and Power-LOAD cot fastener. The Stryker cot is hydraulic and is operated with the push of a button. The system also helps reduce spinal and other traumatic injuries to the EMTs by reducing the lifting and moving of the cot. The load system supports the cot during loading and unloading.
“We are excited to add this new ambulance to our existing fleet. It will enhance our ability to manage multiple events, games, and concerts occurring simultaneously on campus,” stated Josh Fremberg, UHS EMS Manager.
University Ambulance Service is an integral part of the Centre County 911 system. Each year, the service responds to over 1,300 calls. In addition to the 911 services provided, the EMTs cover nearly 500 special events on campus each year, ranging from football games with over 109,000 spectators and large concerts at the Bryce Jordan Center to smaller athletic events and Alumni Association functions.
UAS revealed the new ambulance in front of the HUB at the end of March. During the reveal, students, faculty, staff and visitors on the University Park campus were able to see the branded design artwork, as well as ask questions, take a tour of the inside with student-staff EMTs, and pose for photos. The EMTs were able to highlight the vehicle's interior features, including all the basic life support equipment, which includes an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The ambulance is fully stocked and licensed by the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services through the Seven Mountains EMS Council.
The new Penn State-branded ambulance is now in service. Those interested in EMS opportunities at Penn State can contact the EMS Department at 814-863-0434 or email uhs-ems@psu.edu for additional information.