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The Lake County News Sun recently published a story highlighting the Antioch Fire Department's recent acquisition of a used ambulance from the Town of Paris. This move is seen as a strategic financial decision as the village explores its options for future emergency medical services (EMS) contracts.
The village previously ended its agreement with the Antioch Rescue Squad on May 31 and signed a contract with Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Services, which expires on November 30. Under this arrangement, Superior provides two fully equipped ambulances staffed by two certified paramedics around the clock at the village’s fire stations. However, the cost of leasing these vehicles is high—$53,000 per ambulance annually.
To reduce expenses, the department purchased a 2000 International ambulance with only 22,000 miles on the odometer for $20,000. Fire Chief John Nixon praised the deal, noting that equipping the vehicle would bring the total cost to about $35,000—a one-time investment that could save the village thousands over time. The goal is to eventually phase out ambulance leases and own more equipment in-house.
Antioch already has one donated ambulance from the state Foreign Fire Insurance Tax Board, acquired from Winnetka with 55,000 miles. The department plans to acquire a third ambulance by early 2014, taking advantage of opportunities when other departments sell their used equipment. Nixon emphasized that while new ambulances can cost up to $220,000, the current purchase is a smart, cost-effective choice.
In addition to the ambulance, the department received two donated Lifepak monitors/defibrillators from the local Antioch Firefighters Association. These will be used in the new and existing ambulances to enhance emergency care capabilities.
While the village aims to reduce its reliance on outside contractors, Nixon noted that fully staffing the department with firefighter-paramedics is still a long-term goal. For now, the focus is on transitioning from a lease-based model to one that relies more on owned equipment.
Currently, Superior responds to EMS calls within the village, while the Antioch Rescue Squad serves the unincorporated areas of Antioch Township under a separate contract. The integration of fire and EMS services between the village and the First Fire District remains under discussion, especially as both entities consider potential consolidation.
This latest purchase marks an important step in the department’s efforts to become more self-sufficient and financially responsible in providing essential emergency services to the community.
Thanks, Ron.