Purdue University Fire Department displays Boilermaker pride with new, eye-catching ambulance 

A new ambulance for the Purdue University Fire Department (PUFD) is now in service, and it may catch the eye of Boilermakers. The new ambulance is old gold and black, moving away from the traditional red of the department’s previous ambulances. The ambulance is also equipped with new safety features.

The state-certified advanced life support ambulance went into service at the end of January. It features a powered cot system to assist with loading and unloading patients, an upgraded restraint system for nursing and emergency medical technician (EMT) students who ride along in the ambulance as part of a clinical partnership, and convenient storage for easy access to medical kits and equipment.

On the exterior, the ambulance represents the Purdue brand with custom decals and the department’s patch. Chief Brad Anderson said the decision was largely based on the department’s involvement with the campus community.

“We are here to serve students, faculty, staff and visitors,” Anderson said. “We were intentional with the new design of the ambulance because we thought it would be another opportunity to connect with those we serve and show our Boilermaker pride.”

All firefighters with PUFD are also trained as EMTs or paramedics. Anderson says the department typically makes about 1,500 medical calls a year. He says the features and size of the new ambulance will keep his staff and their patients safer during those calls.

“Not only are there better storage capabilities, the new ambulance also provides more space for us to provide patient care,” Anderson said. “It is also four-wheel drive, which will be helpful in inclement weather.”

As a reminder, emergency medical services provided by PUFD are at no cost to the patient. If in doubt about whether someone needs help, make the call to 911 and let trained professionals assist the person in need of help.

PUFD is part of Administrative Operations. The organization provides the university with safe, reliable and transformative services. Upgrading equipment needed to provide emergency medical services for the campus community is just one of the many ways the organization powers Purdue. To learn more about the organization’s daily operations, follow them on Instagram at @purdueoperations.