🚒🔥 High Demand Alert: First Aid Vehicle Rentals Soaring for British Columbia Forest Fires! 🔥🚒

Summer has arrived, and with it comes the annual challenge of battling forest fires that threaten the picturesque landscapes of British Columbia. The demand for ETVs and MTCs in BC has increased steadily over the past few years as firefighting crews gear up to combat the escalating infernos.

Are you ready to join the frontline response and make a difference in this critical moment?

 

Picture of wildfire firefighters with MTC in the background (Source: BC Wildfire Service)

Why First Aid Vehicle Rentals are Crucial:

As the wildfire season intensifies, our brave firefighting teams are working tirelessly to protect the natural beauty of British Columbia and the safety of its communities. The need for well-equipped first aid transportation vehicles has never been more evident. These specialized units serve as a lifeline, ensuring swift medical assistance to our heroic firefighters in the event of injuries or emergencies amidst the challenging terrain and hazardous conditions.

 

Join the Effort: Rent First Aid Vehicles Today!

At MTC Rentals, we are committed to supporting the firefighting efforts in British Columbia by providing top-of-the-line first aid transportation vehicles for rent. Our fleet is meticulously maintained and fully equipped to meet the demands of the toughest firefighting missions. With flexible rental options and prompt service, MTC Rentals ensures that you have the necessary resources to make a real impact on the frontlines this summer.

 

Why Choose MTC Rentals?

✓ Reliability: Our first aid vehicles are meticulously inspected and maintained to ensure optimal performance and safety, allowing you to focus on your mission with confidence.

 

✓ Versatility: Designed to navigate challenging terrains, our vehicles can access remote locations where firefighting support is urgently needed.

 

✓ Comprehensive Amenities: Equipped with essential medical supplies, our first aid vehicles provide a secure and efficient base for managing emergencies.

 

✓ Responsive Support: Our dedicated team is available 7 days a week to address any concerns or emergency requirements during your rental period.

 

Act Now to Make a Difference!

The fight against forest fires in British Columbia demands a united effort. Secure your first aid transportation vehicle from MTC Rentals today and be a crucial part of the lifesaving mission. Let's stand together to protect our beautiful landscapes and the brave men and women on the frontline. Together, we can make a difference! Contact us at 778-721-5732 or visit our website MTCRentals.ca to book your first aid vehicle now.

 

🌲 Together, lets safeguard British Columbia's natural treasures and communities! 🌲

WorkSafeBC stop usage orders on the Express Custom ETV units

    

Source: WFCA.ca

WorkSafeBC stop usage orders on the Express Custom ETV unit were issued May 2019 and rescinded later in the fall. There is nothing prohibiting their use as the manufacturer contests a stop production order prohibiting their sale.

There are over 300 Express Custom ETV units in the field and the Parksville, B.C. manufacturer is hoping to be able to put more of them there soon.

Last year in the spring a WorkSafeBC officer issued to some employers stop usage orders for the units citing what were seen as faults in the design and function of the slip-in boxes.

This left in legal limbo wildfire, forestry and logging crews who were using the units as part of their required emergency response plans for seriously injured workers.

The manufacturer’s appeal of the stop usage orders succeeded last fall in rescinding the orders and allowing for their use. But a separate stop production order by WorkSafeBC remains in effect.

According to a spokesman for Express Custom the hearing on if they can begin selling their units again may take until September to conclude.

Top 5 Stethoscopes for Paramedics

Top 5 Stethoscopes for Paramedics

Dion Siluch    Paramedic Supplies   

If this is your first Stethoscope or if you are looking for an upgrade, below is a list of our top 5 picks for the best Stethoscope for Paramedics, EMTs and First Responders.

A Quick Look at the Best Overall Stethoscopes

Raking		Name	Features	Our Rating
Best Overall		3M Littmann Classic III	Tunable diaphragm Pediatric side Single-piece diaphragm Open bell	5/5	Check Price
Best Value		MDF Acoustica Deluxe	Latex-free 3 pairs of eartips Dual-head chestpiece	4/5	Check Price
Best Quality		3M Littmann Master Cardiology	Highest acoustic performance Two-in-one tube design Special-Procedures Adaptor	4/5	Check Price
Most Durable		MDF® Sprague Rappaport	Two sound channels Custom fitted 5-IN-1 SPRAGUE DESIGN	3/5	Check Price
Most Stylish		MDF Classic Rose Gold	100% stainless steel Dual-leaf spring construction SafetyLock Eartip Adaptors	3/5	Check Price

*For more information on each of these Stethoscopes click “Check Prices” to view full details and reviews.

1. 3M Littmann Classic III

Best Overall

The 3M Littmann Classic lll is most likely the most popular Stethoscope in the field. The quality and utility of this Stethoscope hits 5/5 is most areas.

The main benefit it of the 3M Litmann Classic is that it covers all the features. Two-sided chest piece for both adult and pediatric patients. Underneath the pediatric side includes a traditional open bell for diagnostics. 

It is comfortable to wear and lasts a long time. From Paramedics I’ve worked with in the past they have all recommended this model.

The only draw back is the price. For around $100 – $150 the cost of replacing one after losing it during a call can be frustrating.

Overall I would give it a 5/5.

2. MDF Acoustica Deluxe

Best Value

Lets talk about price. The MDF is the most affordable Stethoscope on the market. It comes with multiple ear pieces which is nice if you are a student looking to save money. There is a good chance you will misplace the other ear pieces so be sure to keep the ones that fit your ears properly.

The MDF Acoustica can become uncomfortable with long periods of use due to the cheap plastic. But overall the quality is adequate for majority of First Responders and very cheap to replace if you lose or break them during a call.

For those reasons the MDF Acoustica takes home a rating of 4/5.

3. 3M Littmann Master Cardiology

Best Quality

For roughly $250 – $300 you can have the Rolls Royce of Stethoscopes. The high quality material and simple design makes the 3M Littmann Master Cardiology perfect for listening to subtle differences and focus on real diagnostics.

Since there is only an adult side chest piece, it is typically easier to hold than over types of Stethoscopes. In addition, there is no need to switch between pediatric and adult which keeps the tubing sturdy in place and avoids twisting around to a different setting while in use.

This Stethoscope is great for Advanced Life Support crews or Specialists that require greater precision.

4. MDF® Sprague Rappaport

Most Durable

Twins tubes, extra parts and Lifetime Warranty. The MDF Sprague Rappaport is going to last a long time. Even though there are a lot of parts, the durability and lifetime warranty makes this a great choice for people that want to “set it and forget it”.

In addition to the quality, the price is also very attractive with a price usually below $50.
The only downside is the dual tubing can become bulky and hard to fit into pockets or small carry cases.

For those reasons the MDF Sprague Rappaport receives a 3/5.

5. MDF Classic Rose Gold

Most Stylish

Do you want to stand out? Luckily there’s a Stethoscope for those with an edge. With the MDF Classic Rose Gold you can stand out while maintaining quality of care. There is no sacrifice in quality and will measure up to most models on the market.

In fact, the MDF Classic Rose Gold is cardiology grade.

You will have to pay a premium for your good looks though.

Great style, however this Stethoscope receives a 3/5 for it’s price.

Which Stethoscope is right for you?

Whether you are looking for a good deal, the best quality, a stylish look or simply the most recommended Stethoscope for overall value, I hope these reviews can assist you in your choice and make your job easier.

 911 ACP emt Fire Fighter first aid services First Aid Supplies First Responder paramedic Stethoscope Top 5

For more information visit: MTCRentals.ca

What is CMVSS and what do MTC / ETV units require for rollover protection?

If a vehicle is being used for transportation of injured workers the vehicle and any attachments must meet rollover requirements.
Below you can find information regarding these requirements:

What does CMVSS stand for?
Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

What does FMVSS stand for?
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards  (USA)

Where can I get a certification?
It is the responsibility of the manufacturer to provide certificates for each MTC/ETV. Call the manufacturer for a copy of the certificate.

Can I certify my own units to CMVSS rollover requirements?
No, this is a lengthy process done by the manufacturer. Once testing and requirements have been met, each unit of the same design by the same manufacturer are certified.

Are there special procedures to install MTCs?
Yes, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Any shortcuts (such as attaching the unit to the bed of the truck instead of the chassis) may result a compromised CMVSS certificate.

Where can I find more information about Rollover Protection?
You can find more information at the Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety regulations.

What requirements do you have to meet to become FMVSS certified?
FROM TECHNICAL STANDARDS DOCUMENT No. 220, Revision 0R:
"When a force in Newtons equal to 1½ times the unloaded vehicle weight in kilograms multiplied by 9.8 m/sec2 is applied to the roof of the vehicle’s body structure through a force application plate as specified in S5, Test Procedures (a)The downward vertical movement at any point on the application plate shall not exceed 130 mm and(b)Each emergency exit of the vehicle provided in accordance with section 217 of the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations Standard No.217 (Sec.571.217) shall be capable of opening as specified in that Regulation standard during the full application of the force and after release of the force, except that an emergency exit located in the roof of the vehicle is not required to be capable of being opened during the application of the force. A particular vehicle (i.e., test specimen) need not meet the emergency exit opening requirement after release of force if it is subjected to the emergency exit opening requirements during the full application of the force."

If you have any questions please email us at: Rentals@MTCRentals.ca

Visit: MTCRentals.ca

Also see:

How rollovers happen and what you can do to avoid one

High demand for EMTs and PCPs

In the past OFA3 and EMR personnel were the staple in first aid response. For low to medium risk work with less than 10 people, these personnel were deemed appropriate for the job at hand.





Over the past year we’ve seen an increase request for higher level of training across all job sites in Alberta and BC. EMTs and PCPs are becoming the new standard for medics that provide emergency services in remote locations.

Here at MTC Rentals we have received triple the requests for EMT gear in our rentals in Alberta alone. After speaking with our customers we have noticed a decent size shift in the level of care that is being requested from prime contractors that are bidding out work.


While this is great news for increasing standards across Canada, let’s look at some of the implications of this trend:

COSTS

There are two increased costs associated with changing from an EMR to EMT.

First we have wages; the difference in training is substantial. EMR, depending on where you take the course is typically a 3 week program with basic knowledge in life saving techniques. There are far more EMRs available on the market with this level of training and typically receive an honest wage.

When we look at EMT as the next level, the time commitment to a 1 year program is usually a very big decision in most people. The training increases to a Basic Life Support level and includes a number of life-saving drugs that require a deeper understanding of anatomy and philology. The EMT is now capable of providing a higher level of life saving techniques that, in turn, requires a higher level of pay.

Wages are usually subjective but can be easily argued that an EMT will receive higher earnings and its former EMR qualifications.


Second is the gear. EMT personnel use slightly more equipment and up to three times as many drugs that are consumed or expire on a regular basis. The increased amount of equipment and drugs create an increase of costs associated with having them on site, especially when these items are utilized in an emergency situation.

The overall costs associated with changing EMRs to EMTs, including wages and equipment, can be estimated at a 20-25% increase to its employer.

AVAILABLITY

There are fewer licensed EMTs than licensed EMRs in Alberta. This creates a high demand for EMT training and forces employers to compete with wages for good quality long lasting employees.

Finding EMTs and keeping them happy is going to be harder and harder as companies switch over to EMT level care.

QUALITY

Overall, the industries moving to EMT based services will receive better treatment and higher level of life saving techniques for all their workers. As job sites become more remote and new workers are introduced, the number of life threatening injuries will increase.

Canada has always been a leader in safety and response in the private sector and will continue to lead the ways as this trend continues.

CONCLUSION

We are excited to see these changes and understand there is a trend happening for more EMTs and PCPs to be hired in industry. We are happy to hear that companies are proactively increasing the level of care for their works but understand that there is a cost associated in doing so.


While certain jobs such as facilities, nursing stations and remote camps already require EMTs, Paramedics and Nurses, these high risk or permanent work sites are not included in this article. The biggest change comes from sites that previously used OFA3 and EMRs in order to comply with OH&S standards, such as pipeline construction, completions, seismic, and other categories that may be considered medium or low risk.

Please visit us at MTCRentals.ca for a quote on Emergency Vehicle Rentals.


By Dion Siluch

Record Breaking Month

February was a very interesting month when it comes to equipment rentals. This has been the busiest month for Confirmed Rentals the past 24 months.

Below is a graph of the past 24 months for Mobile Treatment Centre “Inquiries” and “Confirmed” rentals.

“Inquiries” are defined as leads or prospects for rentals.
“Confirmed” are defined as the actual rental or credit card deposit from a customer.

As you can see the majority of the previous 24 months regularly has higher inquiries than confirmed rentals.

This is typical and gives a good insight into what the rental market may be doing.


In February, however, we saw the first month that “Confirmed” rentals greatly outweighed “Inquiries” in the overall market demand within a 30 day period. This is the busiest month for our rentals we’ve seen since the drop in oil prices in 2014.


What does this mean?

Since 80% of our revenue comes from Oil and Gas projects in Western Canada, this could be an early indication of another uprising of the demand in this sector.

Some would say the increase comes from the higher standard of safety for companies that may or may not use MTCs or Ambulances on their projects. The higher demand comes from higher standards for emergency response.

However, as shown in the chart below, the number of COR certified safety programs implemented in the western provinces reached it’s peak in 2010 and have stayed relatively steady for the past 7 years.





Whether the jump in the rental demand has increased from recovering oil prices or the simple fact that Canadian OH&S standards have systematically improved over the past 2 decades, we are seeing a large amount of new projects being funded in Western Canada.

Many small businesses are scrambling to find reliable equipment and good workers for the sudden increase of demand. At MTC Rentals we are dedicated to maintain our quality of equipment and supply life-saving transportation vehicles to industrial projects.



If you have any questions or inquiries about our rentals, please call 780 652-1204.

Dion Siluch