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

FDNY

‘EMS is the lowest-paid first responders in the city': FDNY commissioner pushes EMS pay parity

New FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore says low EMS pay is hurting recruitment and retention as medical calls make up the majority of the department’s workload

February 09, 2026 08:32 AM

Labor & Union Issues

‘How is there just a driver?': N.Y. fire chief, board clash over ambulance driver proposal

A proposal to add civilian ambulance drivers to Lockport’s fire-based EMS system ignited a public dispute over overtime, staffing models and accountability

February 09, 2026 07:44 AM

Entertainment

Team USA: Olympians with first responder ties

With the 2026 Winter Olympic Games underway, check out these first responders who served both locally and on the international stage

February 10, 2026 12:14 PM

 · 

Rachel Engel

EMS1 Grants

Ohio FD gets nearly $46K grant for mechanical CPR devices

West Foundation and Cleveland Clinic Fairview awarded funding to equip Avon Lake Fire Department with two LUCAS devices

February 09, 2026 11:58 AM