McCook Fire Department Unveils New Ambulance

McCook, Neb. — The McCook Fire Department’s newest ambulance is officially in service, offering upgraded safety features and a smoother ride for patients and crew.

Firefighter and Paramedic, James Slaten showed the vehicle to City Council members before Monday’s meeting, pointing out its major improvements. He explained that the new ambulance follows the blueprint of the department’s previous unit with only minor changes, which made setup simple. “The day it showed up, we were able to just throw in the power loads that we already had and just plug and play,” he said.

Smoother Ride for Patients

One of the biggest upgrades is the liquid ride suspension system, designed to replace the rough, bouncy air springs used in the past. “The liquid ride is really nice because the pneumatic portion of it doesn’t allow it to rock as much,” Slaten said.

Enhanced Safety for Crews

The ambulance also includes new safety features for emergency personnel. “We can be buckled in and lean all the way forward to deal with a patient, and it still keeps you restrained,” Slaten explained. “When we first spec’d them out, these were the only ones that had airbags. If we get a side impact, there’s an airbag right here.”

Upgraded Equipment and Layout

Other features highlighted by Slaten include:

• A 360-degree camera system to reduce blind spots when backing up.

• A CPR timer system that helps medics keep precise two-minute intervals during resuscitation.

• An onboard fridge and warmer for temperature-sensitive medications and fluids.

• A power-loading stretcher system, which Slaten called a “game changer.” “We’ve never had it get stuck once. It saves your back,” he said.

Financing Details

The ambulance purchase was approved as part of the City Council’s consent agenda through Resolution No. 2025-16, which authorized financing with MNB Bank.

• Total cost: $350,863

• Grant funding: $75,000 through an ARPA Grant awarded in 2023

• Financed amount: $275,863 through MNB Bank at a 5.2% interest rate

• Loan terms: Seven years, with annual payments of $48,151.27, beginning after October 1, 2025

The new ambulance is now fully operational and ready to respond to calls.