County EMS gets federal grant

By The Tampa Tribune
Published: February 08, 2010

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SEBRING Highlands County Emergency Medical Services has been awarded a $128,000 Assistance to Firefighter Grant. The Department of Homeland Security was the result of an application submitted by Paramedic Training Officer Lynda Schock.

The funds will buy 10 automatic compression devices that deliver consistent, effective chest compressions to cardiac arrest patients.Compressions performed by rescuers can't be maintained at the force and rhythm to achieve optimal results.

Automatic compression devices allow paramedics to focus their attention and energy on the other critical aspects of treating cardiac arrest patients, and eliminate the need for additional personnel to accompany them to assist with compressions.

-GARY PINNELL