MUSCATINE, Iowa – A state-of-the-art ambulance is on its way to join the Muscatine Fire Department fleet, marking the department’s first major interior redesign of an ambulance in more than 15 years.
Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer, who also serves as Emergency Medical Services Chief, and Fire Mechanic Mike Collins are currently in Orlando, Florida, conducting the final inspection of the new unit.
The new Wheeled Coach Type III ambulance includes a Powerload System—an advanced feature designed to enhance both patient and operator safety. This system automates the lifting, lowering, and loading of stretchers, significantly reducing physical strain on emergency personnel and minimizing the risk of patient drops, which results in safer and more efficient care.
“This new ambulance represents a significant step forward in both safety and functionality,” said Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer. “Our crews respond to thousands of calls each year, and having the right tools makes a critical difference. The updated design and Powerload system will help protect our medics while improving patient care during transport.”
Feld Fire was awarded the bid to build the new unit, which was approved by the Muscatine City Council on September 7, 2023, at a cost of $279,772. Funding for the vehicle was included in the City’s May 2024 Bond Issue.
Once delivered, the new unit will be designated as Squad 355 and will replace the department’s oldest ambulance—a 2016 Ford E450 Type III—which has logged more than 275,000 miles in service.
The new Squad 355 is expected to enter service shortly after final inspections and training are complete.