Parkland Ambulance deployed their mobile response vehicle this weekend. (submitted photo/Parkland Ambulance)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Paramedics

Parkland Ambulance goes off-road

Feb 25, 2019 | 1:06 PM

Parkland Ambulance paramedics brought out their mobile response vehicle (MRV) this past weekend for a snowmobile collision near Anglin Lake.

Lyle Karasiuk, director of public affairs with Parkland Ambulance, told paNOW the equipment was necessary due to the remote location.

Karasiuk explained the MRV is designed and has a number of features for off-road locations.

“It’s a highly decked out Polaris Ranger and we’re able to load it up here at our station here in Prince Albert and off we go, and it navigates because of its treads and its size, it can navigate a conventional snow machine trail,” he said.

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(submitted photo/Parkland Ambulance)

According to Karasiuk, the injured person, a 27-year-old woman was found 13 kilometers into the bush. She was than loaded onto the MRV before being taken to an ambulance which was waiting on the side of the road. Karasiuk said the MRV provides an environment where the injured person can be protected from the elements.

“This vehicle comes with heat and shelter,” he said.

The injured woman was taken to hospital in P.A. in stable condition. Last winter the unit was used four times, Karasiuk said.

Karasiuk credited those who were on the scene and called paramedics with providing good information about the location and woman’s injuries, which made medics realize the specialized vehicle was needed.

“They were good at that and said we can’t get her out with what we have,” he said.

When it comes to safety, Karasiuk said people who are heading out into remote areas should make sure they have a plan and that they travel with somebody. He added people should have a communication device, like a cellphone or satellite phone. First aid equipment should be included when packing for backcountry outings.

“A few other little things which don’t take a lot of space might be well worth your while to invest in and could potentially keep you warm safe and healthy,” he said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn