All new ambulance vehicles, before being issued an original ambulance

All new ambulance vehicles, before being issued an original ambulance permit as authorized by Mississippi Code 41-59-23, shall conform to current Federal Specification `Star-of-Life Ambulance' as published by the General Services Administration, Specification Section. Ambulances that were constructed prior to the implementation of the current Federal Specifications shall conform to the applicable Federal Specifications that were in effect at the time of original construction. The following are exceptions and additions: 1. Height: Overall height of the ambulance at curb weight shall not exceed 110 inches, excluding roof-mounted light bars and communications accessories. 2. Color Paint and Finish: The base color(s) of the ambulance shall be determined by the licensed owner/operator. A retroreflective stripe, a combination of retroreflective stripes, or Battenburg markings shall be affixed to the ambulance in the following proportions: a. 25% of the length of each side of the cab surfaces when approached from each side, b. 75% of the length of each patient compartment side surfaces when approached from each side, c. 50% of the rear facing vertical surfaces, other than glass or lenses, visible when facing from the rear of the ambulance, shall be equipped with retroreflective material. Where chevrons are used, each stripe shall be 6-inches (152mm) in width, each stripe of the chevron shall be a single-color alternating between two high contrast colors. The stripe or combination of stripes shall be a minimum of 6 inches (152mm) in total vertical width and shall be a contrasting color from the base color of the ambulance. The stripe or combination of stripes shall be permitted to be interrupted by objects (e.g., receptacles, slats between roll-up doors), provided the full stripe is conspicuous as the ambulance is approached. A retroreflective graphic design shall be permitted to replace all or part of the required striping on the front or sides of the vehicle if the design or combination thereof cover at least the same surface area. A retroreflective “Star of Life” emblem shall be affixed to each side and rear of the vehicle. 3. Additional lettering and markings are allowed in, above and below the stripe. 4. The name of the ambulance company shall be printed in minimum 4- inch- high letters of contrasting color on each side of the ambulance. 5. Letters, words, phrases, or designs suggesting special services, i.e., advanced life support, etc., shall be allowed provided such specialty services are in fact available in the vehicle at all times when in operation. 6. The word “Ambulance” shall be displayed on each side, rear, and front of the vehicle in a retroreflective contrasting color from the background. If the construction and design of an ambulance prohibits the placement of the ambulance (reverse) decal on the front hood, it shall be an acceptable exemption. BEMS shall have the authority to grant exceptions to requirements for color, paint, finish, and essential equipment for certain transport capable vehicles that are used exclusively for special situations, i.e. neonatal transport. 7. Emergency lighting shall be in accordance with Mississippi Code 63-7- 19.