SALISBURY, Md - Once a 1990s ambulance, now a mobile comfort station. Paul Davis Restoration's Emergency Recovery Vehicle also known as "E.R.V." provides a safe place for families experiencing fires or other emergencies that require home evacuation.
Daniel Tilghman, Emergency Recovery Coordinator for Paul Davis Restoration explained that E.R.V. plays a vital role in tending to the needs of those devastated by extreme damage or the loss of their homes. He noted that it creates a space that allows for some peace amid the intensity of an emergency situation.
“A lot of times you have a house fire and the victim is outside traumatized because they've lost a lot," said Tilghman. "The fire company’s there and there’s a lot of activity. Lights and sirens and hollering and yelling. ”
He continued expressing that many families are left wondering what to do next once the immediate danger and commotion have subsided. "When the fire's out the hoses get packed up, and it gets dark and quiet very quick. This vehicle is a place where they can go and be comfortable," he said.
The climate controlled vehicle comes stocked with personal care items such as diapers, toothbrushes, deodorant, and water bottles. "Things that we take for granted that we don't think about. But when you’ve lost them in a fire or another emergency or a flood they’re small things that mean a lot, said Tilghman.
There are even activities on board like coloring books and movies to help keep children occupied and divert their attention away from the potentially stressful situation.
E.R.V. can be called out to a scene by responding fire companies or on behalf of a family's insurance provider. Tilghman made it clear, however, that regardless of the situation that this service is for everyone. “We want to restore them back to where they were before their event happened, and whether they use our services or not we’re glad to give back to the community," he said.