Western Turnpike Rescue Squad, Inc is a volunteer based 501c (3)
not for profit organization.
In
1939, concerned members of the community in Westmere decided to form their own
ambulance service. Since then Western Turnpike Rescue Squad has been providing
ambulance service to our community.
Western Turnpike Rescue Squad (WTRS) is a Basic Life
Support Ambulance Service, certified by New York State. We provide around the
clock emergency transportation to hospitals via the 9-1-1 system in the Town of
Guilderland. Ambulance crews of two to four people assisted by Town of
Guilderland or Albany County Paramedics provide services. WTRS provides service
primarily to the McKownville, Westmere, Guilderland,
North Bethlehem and Fort Hunter fire districts in the Town of Guilderland. To
provide service to this large territory, WTRS operates two stations, each with
fully equipped NY State certified ambulances.
In 2003
WTRS completed a major capital improvement.
Our old station at 1853 Western Avenue was sold
and a brand new building was constructed at 200 Centre Drive. This new
station includes bunk rooms, a dedicated class room, disaster ready kitchen
facilities and drive thru bays for the ambulances. Separate
administrative offices and storage spaces are also included.
In 1982, WTRS added Station Two at 3686 Carmen
Road in the Fort Hunter section of Guilderland. Station Two is a
satellite station with minimal accommodations. The 2003 capital
improvement also improved Station Two. The building was razed and a new,
modern structure replaced it. Three bays for emergency vehicles, two bunk
rooms a lounge and a small storage facility make up the station.
WTRS is governed by a Board of Directors selected by the volunteer membership. They are residents, business owners, and your neighbors. They are dedicated to ensuring the long term prosperity of WTRS so that we may be there in your time of need.