For many years the Solomons Volunteers have been in discussions on the need for a UTV for local events. Many time events are held on the island which crowd penetration to a patient becomes very difficult or changing for our apparatus. The UTV has installed a dual purpose skid unit. The skid allows for the transport of patients via a stokes basket to awaiting EMS and it also will serve as a fire suppression unit being able to position a booster line in places where normal apparatus have difficult reaching due to terrain.

The new unit is a Kubota RTV-X900WL-HS with a 3 cycle 54.9 cubic inch engine which produces 21 HP. It has a variable hydro transmission, independent suspension, disc brakes, and a 2" hitch in order to tow a trailer with extra supplies.

In the upcoming weeks the volunteers will begin to training on the UTV. This unit is planned to go into service this summer in time for the many events that will be hosted on the island.