Alton rescuers commended for saving a life

ALTON — Interim Fire Chief Deborah Pendergast of the Alton Fire Rescue Department recently commended members of her team for saving a life, and awards were presented to the first responders at the Alton Board of Selectmen’s meeting on Oct. 24.

On Oct. 9, the duty crew on Ambulance 1 responded to a 52-year-old male experiencing severe chest pain in the early morning hours. Shortly after arrival on scene, the man went into respiratory and cardiac arrest. Rescuers announced a "working code" and immediately began lifesaving measures by securing the airway, doing chest compressions and attaching the cardiac monitor. They administered a defibrillating shock and after reassessing, a pulse had returned.

As they were preparing the man for transport, he went into cardiac arrest two more times. They were able to bring back pulse and respirations both times through team work, impeccable skills and practicing compassionate care. One off-duty member and one police officer responded as well and were an integral part in the team work needed to save a life. The hospital staff praised the crews' skills and abilities.

The following members were recognized and presented a Life Saving Award: Capt. Patrick O'Brien, Lt. Ryan McQuade, Firefighter/Paramedic Brandon Wood, Firefighter/Intern Aaron Tice and Officer Jamie Fellows.

The mission of the Alton Fire and Rescue is to provide high-quality fire, rescue, medical and environmental hazard mitigation to the citizens and visitors of the town of Alton.