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FAQs | Testimonials Testimonials A Cardiac Science AED Brings Lifesaving Therapy to a Firefighting Family "I was dead," said Tom Davison, a Minneapolis firefighter. His wife, Kathy, also a firefighter, laid him out on the floor after he suddenly collapsed in their kitchen. She and her daughter, Sarah, began administering CPR, while a family friend called 911. Ironically, it was Tom's brother, John, who first responded to the call. Luckily, Minneapolis Fire Department is equipped with Cardiac Science AEDs. "It shocked him the first time," relayed Kathy, "and then called for no shock. The device then shocked him three more successive times, and we got him back!" Firefighters and AEDs: An Expert's Report from the Field We've been using Cardiac Science automated external defibrillators (AEDs) since 1995 and have seen very good results and increased our level of service to the community. We demand a lot from the equipment we use. The units are rugged and withstand an incredible amount of wear and tear. We provide fire/EMS service to a medium-sized urban area, about 30 square miles, and five islands with full-time summer residents and vacationers. These two distinct environments challenge us to provide the best possible service to our constituents. The ease-of-use features and comprehensive voice prompts enabled us to easily train our fire personnel to provide defibrillator treatment to our residents and colleagues. We also trained several volunteers to administer treatment on each of the islands during the summer. Training was a snap; we trained each person on the AEDs in two hours. Prior to training, our personnel were reluctant to use the AEDs. Now our personnel feel a strong sense of loyalty to and reliance on the units. In fact, because of our experience with Cardiac Science AEDs, our police department and public works department are considering implementing an AED program similar to ours. Going forward, we are making it a priority in our department to educate everyone on the importance of early defibrillation in SCA cases. And one day, I hope, AEDs will be as common as fire extinguishers. The plain and simple truth is that these devices save lives, and to that end, it's almost a liability not to have easy access to AEDs. Chip Boehm, RN, EMT-P/Firefighter EMS Education/Quality Improvement Officer Portland (Maine) Fire Department |
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