ATV rescue units may aid in quicker response

The all-terrain vehicles will help responders navigate the long and narrow winding trails to reach victims in need

By Carlos E. Medina
Ocala.com

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — With nearly 200 miles of narrow trails that wind through the densely wooded land of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway in Marion County, getting help to someone in need can be difficult.

But thanks to donations from several trail and greenway organizations, Marion County Fire Rescue was able to establish two new all-terrain vehicle rescue units to more easily reach trail users who need help. More than $20,000 was raised for the effort and helped outfit the units with ATVs as well as rescue trailers, which are pulled by the vehicles and can carry patients and equipment.

“The rescue vehicles can’t go down the trails. They have to park and carry anywhere from 30 to 40 pounds of equipment for miles. It makes the rescue process that much longer,” said Jessica Greene, MCFR spokeswoman.

Full story: ATV rescue units can speed up aid on Greenway