The Island has a new fleet of ambulances to improve patient comfort and safety.

Acting Minister for Health Walter Roban, officially launched the four new vehicles yesterday, accompanied by Emergency staff from the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH).

The ambulances replace the ageing KEMH fleet at a cost of $400,000, and are equipped with the latest technology and brighter LED lights for greater traffic visibility.

Mr. Roban said: "This marks a continuing investment in our emergency services to ensure a fast and professional response to people in Bermuda in need of emergency medical care."

Explaining their advantages, Bermuda Hospitals Board Chief of Staff Donald Thomas said: "When people are in a medical emergency, they just want to get to hospital. Our new ambulances enable us to improve comfort and safety even before patients go through the Emergency door.

"There is improved suspension for a smoother ride, non-slip floors to keep the patient's stretcher stable, as well as harness-style seat belts and side netting to protect EMTs [Emergency Medical Technicians] or family members in the event of a sudden stop.

"We are very pleased to support our EMTs with a quality ambulance that improves their ability to respond, care for and keep safe anyone experiencing a medical emergency in Bermuda."

The hospital currently has 23 EMTs, 18 of whom are trained to the higher intermediate level of emergency medical care.

Head EMT Raymond Santucci said: "As EMTs we were closely involved in the design and selection of the new ambulances and we are extremely pleased with them.

"We receive an average of 12 to 15 call-outs a day, and up to 20 on a busy day. We have selected ambulances that pack in the latest technology and design, while maintaining a small size to navigate Bermuda's narrow roads."

Wendell Hollis, deputy chairman of the board, said: "Investing in the improvement of all our services is a priority for the board. The purchase of these four ambulances with equipment cost in excess of $400,000, but it was a timely investment to replace an ageing ambulance fleet.

"The new vehicles provide a smoother journey for patients as well as improved equipment and safety features."