Paramedic Services to donate surplus ambulance to Sault College

Chief Katie Kirkham says equipment no longer suitable for regular operations will help Sault College students gain real-world experience

The chief of Sault Ste. Marie Paramedic Services says the donation of a surplus ambulance to Sault College will pay off from the experience students will gain using real-world equipment. On Thursday, the District of Sault Ste.

Marie Social Services Administration board approved the donation of a surplus ambulance and three stretchers to Sault College's two-year Paramedic program. "These are items we can no longer use in our regular service delivery, but will be well-used at the College," said Chief Katie Kirkham. The ambulance and stretchers have reached the end of their useful life for front-line use, but Kirkham said they would be expensive for the college to obtain and they can still be of use as teaching aids.

"These students will eventually be future paramedics in the north, and we want to do anything we can to support their success. Sault College is building an amazing paramedic program, and it’s great to be able to contribute in a small way," she said. The estimated value of the surplus ambulance and three stretchers is between $5,500 and $6,750.

Over the last few months, the paramedic service has also donated about 100 helmets and two stair chairs to the Sault College program. "We’re really happy to be able to donate these items to enhance the student’s training knowing it will help strengthen the paramedic program and their overall learning experience," said Kirkham. A power load device and 10 GPS units will be sold through a public auction website, with an estimated value up to $5,300.

Proceeds from the auction will be directed toward the DSSAB's reserve fund.