Ambulances

When someone is hurt or very sick, an ambulance races to help. Ambulances have flashing lights and loud sirens so other cars move out of the way. Inside, there is special medical equipment to help patients. Paramedics ride in ambulances and start treating people right away.

Inside an Ambulance

An ambulance is like a tiny hospital on wheels. It has a stretcher for the patient to lie on. There is oxygen, bandages, medicine, and a heart monitor inside. Paramedics can give treatments while the ambulance drives to the hospital. Every second counts in an emergency!

History of Ambulances

The first ambulances were horse-drawn carts used during wars. They carried wounded soldiers off the battlefield. By the early 1900s, ambulances had engines and could go faster. Today, some places use helicopter ambulances to reach people in hard-to-reach areas.

Fun Facts

• The word 'ambulance' comes from a Latin word meaning 'to walk,' because early ones were carried by people.
• The word AMBULANCE is written backward on the front so drivers can read it in their mirrors.
• Air ambulances, or helicopter ambulances, can reach patients in remote areas in minutes.

Did You Know?

In the United States, calling 911 will send an ambulance to you. Dispatchers can sometimes help you give first aid over the phone while the ambulance is on its way!