FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between ALs and BLS ambulances?
ALS means Advance Life Support and BLS means Basic Life Support. A BLS unit will have two Emergency Medical Technicians whereas an ALS unit will have paramedics. An ALS unit will be equipped with airway equipment, cardiac life support, cardiac monitors and glucose testing device. One of the main differences between Advance Life Support and Basic life Support is that the latter is non-invasive. This means that a BLS cannot use needles and other devices that makes cuts in the skin. The BLS providers cannot administer medicines. On the other hand, An ALS provider can give injections and even administer medication to a patient. Some paramedics are able to do a 12 Lead Electrocardiogram to determine if the patient is having a certain type of heart attack. Paramedics are able to send the ECG to the hospital so the doctors and nurses can be ready to immediately treat the patient. Some paramedic units also carry a machine called CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure). This device is particularly useful for patients having trouble breathing. Paramedics also carry a state of the art cardiac monitor/defibrillator that is also capable of serving as an external pacemaker if needed.
What is a Heavy Rescue?
It is a heavy wrecker, tow truck like the ones you see pulling a semi truck but built for rescue work.
What is the difference between a Type 1 , Type 2 and Type 3 Engine?
Type 1: 1000GPM Pump, 400Gal Tank, 1200ft of 2 1/2" hose, 400ft of 1 1/2" hose, 200ft of 1" hose, 20ft Ext. Ladders, 500GPM Master Stream Type 2: 500GPM Pump, 400Gal Tank, 1000ft of 2 1/2" hose, 500ft of 1 1/2" hose, 300ft of 1" hose, 20ft Ext. Ladders Type 3: 120GPM Pump, 300Gal Tank, 100ft of 1 1/2" hose, 800ft of 1" hose Type 4: 50GPM Pump, 200Gal Tank, 300ft of 1 1/2" hose, 800ft of 1" hose. (Many departments call these brush patrols or attacks)