LINCOLN, Neb. — New vending machines at fire stations are helping first responders be prepared for emergency situations.
The units are stocked with everything from defibrillator pads to heart and breathing meds. Most of these meds, according to officials, are part of a nationwide shortage and by having them in the machines, they can keep better track of how much medics use them.
“I would think people would look at this and realize that this can save money, increase their efficiency, increase their securities,” EMS Supervisor Scott Wiebe told KLKNTV.
“It can alert us to the fact if people are vending more than they should. We can shut the machine off when an employee is on vacation or restrict their rights so they should have no reason to access it,” Wiebe said.
Only Lincoln Fire Rescue can access the machines, and if someone tries to break in, the bullet-proof glass and high security access should slow them down. At this time, the machines are only available at LGH West, Fire Station Seven and St. E’s, but officials are hoping to expand.
All machines should be up and running by next week.