History of EVAC

The Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps was founded in early 1962 by a group of five individuals headed by Ken Gayton of the Office of Civil Defense. A used 1952 Cadillac hearse was purchased for $400 and converted into an ambulance which was placed in service in May of 1962. Completion of an advanced first aid course was the training requirement to become a member.

In 1969 the ambulance designation was changed to Rescue 512 and communications began to be dispatched from Tolland County Mutual Aid Fire Service where it has remained for the past 26 years. The Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps has grown from a five member, loosely knit organization in 1962 to the current 40 plus
member, Basic Life Support, structured organization. The training EVAC members experience has advanced from basic first aid in the early 1960's to a comprehensive and extensive EMT-Basic course including CPR and constant training that enables its members to provide the best emergency care possible to our community.

A few facts about EVAC:

• Both paid staff (30%) and volunteer personnel (70%)

• Run with two ambulances (one staffed), one service vehicle

• Rescue Post 512 – Explorer Program (0730-1800)

• Equipment/Services provided include run bags, dress uniforms, extrication suites, green lights, health and wellness program, etc.

• Annual call volume averages 1,000 runs

• State of the art equipment includes the LUCAS 2 device, battery powered stretcher, blood glucose monitoring, carbon monoxide detectors, electronic patient care reporting system, etc.

• Volunteer incentive program, retirement program

•  Progressive continuing education, training, etc.