Hanover Park Fire Department Takes Delivery of a New Stryker Power-Pro XT COT

Release date: Thursday, November 05, 2009

The fire department has recently taken delivery of a new Stryker Power-Pro XT Cot for use in the ambulance at Fire Station No. 1.

The Stryker Power-Pro XT Cot is raised, lowered and inclined using a battery-powered hydraulic system rather than brute strength, thus reducing the potential for injury.   The hydraulics will also act as a shock absorber allowing a smoother ride over rough ground. The mattress is sealed to provide a cleaner environment and is designed for greater patient comfort.  The cot operates on a 24 volt rechargeable battery, similar to one that is used in a cord-less drill.

This cot is built with new-age alloys allowing it to have a weight capacity of up to 750 pounds. Though the Stryker cot is built stronger, the narrower design allows paramedic crews to fit through the same doorways and hallways as existing cots. Additional space and brackets will allow the paramedics to mount a heart monitor and oxygen tanks for continuous use during patient transport to and from the ambulance.

Back and leg injuries have long been a frequent cause of firefighter disability.  In an effort to reduce or eliminate back and leg injuries, cots with a powered lift and lowering feature are becoming the standard in the fire service. By reducing back and leg injuries, we are able to help control rising health care costs.

The Stryker Power-Pro XT Cot will be demonstrated prior to the Village Workshop on November 5, at 6:00 PM at the Village Hall. The cot will also be demonstrated, upon request, at Fire Station No. 1.