Assemblyman Pete Lopez Helps Local Fire And Rescue Company Obtain New Ambulance

Makes Use Of Existing Resources

May 7, 2010

Pictured above (from left to right) are Assemblyman Lopez, Dan Rosecrans, Larry Magiera, and Scott Johnson with new Central Bridge Fire District ambulance.

While Assemblyman Pete Lopez (R, C, I – Schoharie) has been urging state leaders to negotiate a state budget that makes use of existing resources and reduces spending by sharing services, he put these practices to work locally by helping the Central Bridge Fire District obtain a used ambulance to replace their 20-year-old ambulance.

“When Central Bridge contacted me about helping replace their old ambulance, my first instinct was to look at where fire equipment may be replaced at a more rapid pace than here in our rural communities. On Long Island winters are not as harsh and some of the fire departments are even paid companies, so I contacted fire districts across the island on behalf of our volunteer firefighters at Central Bridge,” said Assemblyman Lopez.

Assemblyman Lopez heard back from a number of fire companies on Long Island offering a variety of equipment including hoses and gear; however, Montauk Fire District offered a 1997 ambulance for Central Bridge at no charge. The new ambulance had automatic features, less wear and tear, and was in better compliance with current fire regulations.

A group of Central Bridge’s volunteer firefighters traveled down to Montauk to pick up the ambulance. Among them was Dan Rosecrans, Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners, who stated, “We are very grateful to receive this new ambulance – and at no cost, too. The maintenance on the ambulance has been immaculate and it is performing flawlessly.”

After putting on some new lettering, installing a new stretcher mount (to fit Central Bridge’s model of stretcher) and radio system, and putting on all-weather tires, the new ambulance is up and running.

Central Bridge Fire District is a volunteer fire department located on Route 20 in Central Bridge. The company receives about 200 calls per year and provides Advanced EMT/Critical Care ambulance services, as well as fire prevention and control services, for emergencies in Schoharie County.

“This is a perfect example of how we can creatively meet local needs, without raising taxes,” said Assemblyman Lopez. “I hope this vehicle helps our Central Bridge volunteers care for the community for years to come.”

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