Photo of the Week: CAL FIRE off-road ambulance

CAL FIRE San Diego County Fire/Facebook

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — Rescue Ambulance 61, based at Ocotillo Wells, is one of several specialized off-road ambulances used by CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire to reach patients in remote areas of east San Diego County.

The unit is a converted Ford Transit outfitted with larger wheels, enhanced suspension and a front-mounted winch to navigate tight roads, steep grades and uneven terrain. Officials say the upgrades allow crews to access patients more quickly when incidents occur beyond paved roads.

These off-road ambulances are typically assigned to rural fire stations to improve coverage for remote communities and hard-to-reach locations.

Trending

Hospital

N.Y. hospital honored after deadly shipyard fire, explosion

Richmond University Medical Center was recognized for treating 20 patients, including many FDNY members

June 13, 2026 08:00 AM

Rescue

Off-duty Fla. firefighter/paramedics help save boy from drowning

Two off-duty medics and two nurses helped revive a 5-year-old boy after he fell into a resort pool in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

June 13, 2026 12:00 PM

Advanced Life Support

Pa. paramedic interceptor program sends EMS beyond its primary service area

Shippensburg Area EMS uses a paramedic interceptor model to provide ALS across a wider area, but officials say the program creates reimbursement and funding challenges

June 14, 2026 08:00 AM

Substance Use Disorders

Documentary spotlights fentanyl crisis in North Texas, Okla.

“Dancing with Death” shares personal stories of fentanyl overdoses and addiction as organizers work to raise awareness

June 14, 2026 12:00 PM