Continuing Stretcher Thefts Plague Texas

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From a Texas Health Department release

Continuing Stretcher Thefts Plague Texas

(Source: Texas Health & Human Services Commission)

In the past 2-3 weeks, a group or multiple groups of thieves have stolen Stryker stretchers from EMS departments in major cities in Texas. One Houston department had six stolen in one night. Austin and San Antonio are also reporting thefts. Departments report fences being cut, windows of ambulances being smashed out, and multiple getaway vehicles seen on surveillance videos.

On December 10, The Texas Health and Human Services Commission issued a notice about the thefts (http://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/TXHHSC/bulletins/995f41), confirming the stretchers are the only items being stolen.

One current theory is they are being stolen in order to be resold. Ads for used stretchers on an online classifieds site for the region show prices ranging from $12,000 to $20,000. EMS departments purchasing used stretchers are strongly encouraged to do their homework and make sure they are not purchasing stolen goods.

All emergency services agencies should evaluate their physical security regularly, not only the methods but also their effectiveness. If video surveillance is in use, is the picture clear? Are cameras showing all vital areas, such as fencing? Are ambulances being kept in a parking lot or are they locked away in an apparatus bay or garage? Reinforcing security measures goes a long way to keeping high-dollar items safe.