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San Antonio Fire rolls out new high-tech ambulances

The new units feature UV germicidal light that can kill germs that may be present in the back of the ambulance.

There are new high-tech ambulances rolling down our streets. The top-of-the line technology includes an anti-theft system.

On Wednesday, the San Antonio Fire Department showed off its 18 new EMS ambulances. Each one cost about $292,000. It is money well spent, according to Chief Charles Hood.

"One of the finest ambulances any metro fire department has," he said. "Our priority is making sure they have great equipment. This is their equipment. It is purchased with their tax dollars. It is the best we could possibly buy."

The ambulances will even feature UV germicidal light. SAFD Paramedic William Weeks said it will be used everyday.

"It will kill any germs in the back," he said. "It will also get under the stretcher and seat, because the light can bounce off the walls and off the floor."

Each unit will feature a power load system. It can hold up to 700 pounds. It will also be a life-saver for fighters and paramedics who won't have to do so much heavy lifting.

"This is a hydraulic system," Weeks said. "It saves our back, knees and elbows."

The ambulances will also have anti-theft systems. This year, in two separate incidents, ambulances were taken from a scene. Now, when a unit arrives on scene, the system will automatically lock the doors.

"But, it does require a positive action to drive the unit when you go and depart the scene," Weeks said.

Chief Hood said they respond to around 1,100 calls a day. Next year, he hopes to replace another 21 units. He said ambulances are rotated every four years at about 200,000 miles.

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