Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company Adds Life Saving CPR Device
The Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company, a fully volunteer organization, has recently added a critical life saving tool to its arsenal: the LUCAS mechanical CPR device. First developed by Lund University in Sweden, this battery-operated machine is designed to deliver uninterrupted mechanical chest compressions at a constant rate and depth, ensuring optimal care for cardiac arrest patients. This new addition offers the ability to greatly enhance the fire company's response to cardiac arrest emergencies, particularly during situations where manpower is limited.
The LUCAS device offers advancements in prehospital care for patients, delivering consistent and high-quality chest compressions, which are crucial in increasing a patient's chance of survival following cardiac arrest. According to the American Heart Association, more than 356,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year, and swift, effective intervention can significantly improve survival rates.
Over a year ago, the Harris Hill Fire Company began exploring ways to maintain their high standard of patient care while optimizing limited personnel resources. This approach led them to explore mechanical CPR devices, which offer automated and continuous CPR, helping to reduce firefighter fatigue and allowing personnel to focus on other critical medical interventions.
To fund the purchase of the LUCAS device, the Harris Hill Fire Company reached out to the community for financial support through a fundraising appeal. The community responded overwhelmingly with generosity, allowing the fire company to acquire the device, being used twice in recent months. In both cases, the patients achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) before arriving at the hospital—a crucial first step in recovery, demonstrating the device's significant life saving potential.
Second Assistant Chief Kevin Swann explained, "We simply turn the machine on with a single button and lower the suction cup until it meets the patient’s chest. Continuous CPR gives the patient the best chance at survival." EMS Lieutenant Daniel Cucinotta added, "Maintaining continuous and effective CPR is essential for increasing any patient’s chance of survival and the LUCAS is able to provide this consistently during prehospital care.”
The Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company’s new mechanical CPR device represents a win-win for both the company and the community, ensuring that more lives can be saved with cutting-edge technology and the dedication of its volunteers.
This article was recently published in the Clarence Bee.