New ambulance building to debut at open house event: When the Fulton County Emergency Medical Association (FCEMA) moves into a new facility sometime in May, it will complete a project which has been in the planning since 2006, according to FCEMA Executive Director Andrew Thornton. The green building, which is located at the corner of South Main Street and Cherry Street (635 S. Main St.) in Canton, will provide more than double the space (9,000 square feet) for the ever expanding needs of the association, explains Thornton. Thornton says a public open house event is planned from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on May 21 at the new facility. The event will celebrate Emergency medical Services Week as well as provide an opportunity for the public to see the building. In addition, a Canton Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event is planned on May 19. The time for that event will be announced. The three-bay, single-story building has a wooden frame with a steel skin and roof and a thin brick wainscot. The building is designed to meet all city codes which include enhanced safety features such as a sprinkler system and storm safe room. The energy-efficient building has spray-in insulation which provides a higher level of insulation and allows for more cost-effective heating and cooling. Heating and cooling is provided with geothermal technology for areas such as the office, training area, storage area, and living spaces. The facility also has an in-floor system to heat the ambulance garage. Lighting at the building has been situated to protect the privacy of neighboring homes, while still providing security. The three-bay garage is capable of housing six vehicles and faces on Main Street. Work on the building began in August of 2010. “The (new facility) has been in the capital plan and will cost around $1.5 million. That amount includes architect costs and everything,” states Thornton, who says it should provide adequate space for the next 40 to 50 years. The Fulton County Emergency Medical Association Board consists of 10 members, and Thornton explains they help his staff continue to provide excellent ambulance service. There are a minimum of four people on duty 24 hours a day and seven days a week at the Canton facility, so living quarters are a top issue. The new building will offer more privacy with individualized sleeping accommodations which have acoustical separation. FCEMA is at the forefront with many of the medical services offered to Fulton County residents and quick response times. Several of the current personnel have many years of service to the Association and offer valued expertise, stresses Thornton. Ambulance facilities are located in Canton and Ipava.
Caption: New ambulance facility close to its opening: Fulton County Emergency medical Association Executive Director Andrew Thornton is proud of the new green facility being constructed at the corner of South Main Street and Cherry Street in Canton. The building will offer 9,000 square feet of space for the ever-expanding needs of the medical association and its employees. An open house is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. May 21 in conjunction with celebrating Emergency medical Services Week. A Canton Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours is planned to be held there are well on Thursday, May 19.
