Firefighter/paramedics have enhanced their ability to respond quicker to search-and-rescue responses by adding an external compartment for a stokes basket — patient transport stretcher — to Jackson Township Division of Fire’s Ladder 202 engine.

Led by longtime Capt. Merion Jacob, the firefighter/paramedics added steel beams to Ladder 202 and mounted an external compartment for easier and quicker stokes basket access during search and rescue.

Pictured (from left) are firefighter/paramedics Ryan Feyh, Capt. Merion Jacob, Andrew Soloha, Robert Schneider, firefighter Tim Burleson and Dan Cain.