How to Locate Free Ambulance Equipment

Ambulance equipment allows emergency medical service providers to care for patients both in the field and en route to the hospital, but.equipment such as heart monitors, defibrillators and splints is costly. Volunteer ambulance and rescue services rely on free ambulance equipment to help them remain in operation. Donations, sponsors and grants are ways for nonprofit ambulance companies to obtain the equipment they need to provide their community with emergency medical services.

Instructions

• 1

  Hospitals may be willing to donate equipment for use on an ambulance

  Contact local hospitals and health care facilities that may be willing to provide equipment. Hospitals may agree to donate equipment that has been replaced with updated models. Many will replace medications used on patients while en route to their facility. Health care facilities that depend on the ambulance company for service can donate supplies, such as linens, to help the organization.

• 2

  Talk to city and community leaders about getting donations. Communities may be willing to help supply local nonprofit ambulance companies so that the community will have adequate EMS services. Reach out to all members of the community for help acquiring supplies and equipment for use on the ambulance. Local schools, religious organizations and businesses may also be willing to provide funding for ambulance equipment.

• 3

  Grants can provide funds for the purchase of more expensive equipment.

  Apply for state and federal grants. Grant money can go toward the purchase of an expensive piece of equipment or for purchasing splints, backboards and bandages. The company must meet the grant's specific requirements to receive the money. Some grants can be renewed annually while others are available on a one-time-only basis.

• 4

  Accept both monetary and equipment donations. Hold an event that allows members of the community to make donations. This is a great way to obtain smaller items such as bandages and elastic wraps, and it gives the members of the community the opportunity to help. Set up donation bins at pharmacies, grocery stores and houses of worship to allow individuals to donate items at their convenience.

• 5

  Bake sales, silent auctions and selling catalog items are great ways to raise funds.

  Hold fundraisers. Silent auctions, bake sales and selling items such as candy bars are a great way to raise money for organizations. Ask the community for volunteers to help with the event.