| CPD
to repurpose old ambulance
Cottonwood Police Department has received a 2005 Ford Ambulance from St. Marys Hospital. The ambulance was originally purchased with grant funding through Idaho EMS. Recently the hospital was able to update their ambulance through Idaho EMS grants, and this one was replaced. Per the rules with Idaho EMS, this vehicle could no longer be used as an ambulance. Through relationships between Cottonwood Police and St Mary’s Hospital a discussion began regarding donating the vehicle to the Police Department, resulting in St. Mary’s Hospital transferring ownership to the City of Cottonwood, and Cottonwood Police. This vehicle is being re-named from "ambulance" to CRV, or Community Response Vehicle. Over the last several years there have been multiple incidents where first responders would need to remain on scene for hours, such as our fatal house fire where an officer was required to remain on scene overnight, the bomb threats in Grangeville, or officer involved shootings in the area. This vehicle will be used in a support role for response. It will be a portable office, with laptop, printer and necessary paperwork to document and investigate incidents. We have also worked with Idaho County Emergency Manager Jerry Zumalt and have 2 2000 watt generators along with scene lighting for incidents. The plan is to have this available for all first responders in our area. It can support EMS, Fire Department or Police Department activities as needed. One of the great things, it can also support community events, such as the upcoming fun walks. We have 110 power, heat, air conditioning or just someplace out of the weather as well as full radio communication in case of an emergency. We are also working with surrounding agencies to develop agreements where the vehicle can support our neighbors on any event where it may be needed. What a great asset to have available. I'm excited, as the imagination is the only limit on how useful this vehicle will be in supporting any emergency. I am very pleased with the donation and deeply thank Matt Forge and St Mary’s Hospital for their support of both the community and Cottonwood Police Department. |
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