During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the funding and availability of new ambulances for the Guam Fire Department. Officials expressed frustration over the lack of clarity on where the promised funding for five new ambulances would come from, especially given that the specifications for these vehicles have yet to be finalized.

The acting chief of the Guam Fire Department indicated that the department requires eight ambulances to operate effectively but is currently managing with only five. This situation has been exacerbated by ongoing issues with the procurement process, as the General Services Agency (GSA) is reportedly closed to issuing necessary purchase orders for repairs and parts. As a result, the operational capacity of the existing ambulances remains uncertain, with only four ambulances functioning in September and a slight increase to five in October.

Officials highlighted the urgency of addressing the ambulance shortage, noting that delays in response times could have serious implications for public safety. The acting chief was urged to explore alternative solutions, including potential contracts for transport services, to ensure that the people of Guam have access to reliable emergency medical services.

The meeting underscored a pressing need for a strategic plan to secure funding and improve the ambulance fleet, as the current situation reflects a broader issue of inadequate investment in emergency services over the past six years.