(Lawrenceville, Ga., Feb. 3, 2016) – Following the success of two previous projects to save money by remounting existing ladders on new fire trucks, Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services will save $323,000 by remounting eight ambulances onto new chassis. Commissioners approved the project, which is being funded by SPLOST, on Tuesday.

Fire Chief Casey Snyder said the lifetime warranty on the Life Line compartment modules will be continued and the units will be refurbished to new condition with updated equipment and technology for use by emergency responders. The department had previously saved $135,000 by reusing the aerial ladders from two old, high-maintenance fire trucks that were due for replacement.

In a separate action, the Board accepted a $255 donation of animal oxygen masks made by 11-year-old Julia Hicks, who chose to help animals involved in fires rather than receive birthday gifts this year. Her mother, Melinda Hicks, worked with the Emma Zen Foundation to provide three sets of animal oxygen masks that will be placed on Engine 16, Engine 17 and Engine 27. “This generous donation speaks well of Julia’s attitude and willingness to help the community,” said Snyder.