As we head into the summer heat, Vintech continues to grow, adding Echo Hose Ambulance of Shelton as our newest client. As of July 1, Vintech has been brought on board to staff their “Tactical Car” which provides mutual aid service to the entire Naugatuck Valley. Echo Hose Ambulance, led by Chief Michael Chaffee and Assistant Chief Joe Laucella, has an annual call volume of over 4500 calls. Their equipment includes 4 BLS ambulances, several first responder and officer vehicles, a bike team, all terrain vehicle, and even a Segway. The department looks to add a rescue boat and to enlarge their headquarters in order to properly service and maintain their fleet. The Vintech staff, which will complement their own paid staff and volunteers, will be stationed at the new Echo Hose Training Center located on Howe Avenue. With the addition of Shelton, we now service two departments in “The Valley” with Storm Ambulance of Derby having joined us in 2003. We look forward to working with Echo Hose and we welcome the newest employees to the Vintech Team and thank them for making this a smooth transition.