THUNDER BAY — The nature of the job means ambulances undergo a lot of wear and tear, and often don't last longer than five years on the road.
It's why Superior North EMS is in the market for nine replacement vehicles over the next two years.
Between this year and 2025, it could swap out almost two-thirds of its current 38-vehicle fleet.
Wayne Gates, Chief of Superior North EMS, says up to five ambulances will be ordered this year, four more next year, and up to 15 additional units over the following three years.
The vehicles are typically replaced once their odometers reach 250,000 kilometres.
Gates said ambulances that are in service in district communities usually last longer than those in the city, where trips are more frequent and there is more stop-and-go driving.
"As these units get older, sometimes the transmission goes. We have to look at that too. Is it worth spending $6,000 or $7,000 on a unit or do we use it for parts? All these things are factored in."
A fully-equipped ambulance costs about $135,000.
The Ontario government has certified two Canadian manufacturers – Saskatchewan-based Crestline Coach and Quebec-based Demers – to supply the province's ambulance services.
In the call for bids, Superior North EMS lists nearly 30 specific requirements such as an electric monitoring system with a Wi-FI hotspot, cameras for monitoring the interior and exterior of the compartment from above the rear doors, and power driver's and passenger's seats.
City council has already approved the budget for five new ambulances this year.
Vehicles that are removed from service due to age and condition may be kept for parts, auctioned off by the city, or donated to services such as a street nurse program.
