Chester First Aid Squad recently announced its line and administrative Officers for 2016.

This year, CFAS celebrates 70 years of service to the Chester community and would like to recognize and congratulate Sandy Smith who celebrates 45 with the squad this year.

CFAS President Cassie Cline has held every elected position during her 23 years as a member of the squad. Cline is a third generation CFAS squad member, with numerous family members also serving as Life Members, including grandfather Reuben Thompson, mother Sandra Smith, sister Debbie Dore and husband Rob Cline.

“I am honored to serve as President of the Chester First Aid Squad this year,” said Cline. “My family is proud to have served with CFAS for generations. We have an awesome team of dedicated volunteers, and it’s going to be an exciting year for us.”

CFAS is in the process of planning and purchasing a custom 2016 Type One ambulance mounted on a Ford F-450 4X4 pick-up truck chassis. The ambulance will have four-wheel drive for better access to patients in inclement weather. It will also feature a bariatric stretcher with automatic loading capabilities to eliminate potential back injuries associated with lifting patients.

“EMS 53” as it is called will be purchased using funds from donations to the squad, plus possible funding from a FEMA grant is being investigated. In addition, a very generous donation from Offray Fabrics will go towards the new stretcher loading system.

The new ambulance will replace a 2006 Ford E-450 built by Horton which had mechanical problems and will be retired.

CFAS serves as a Northern New Jersey Safe Kids Car Seat Inspection Station. Parents can stop by the station on the first Tuesday of the month from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. and the third Thursday of the month from 7 a.m.-noon, and the certified technicians will ensure children’s safety seats are the correct type and properly installed.

To learn more about the Chester First Aid Squad, inquire about becoming a member, or make a donation, visit: www.chesterfirstaid.org or call the CFAS Office at: 908-879-5560. CFAS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization: all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law and are greatly appreciated.