Jefferson R-7 Fire Protection District

Congratulation are in order!

Yesterday, we were deeply honored and humbled that two of our own Jefferson R-7 Fire Protection District personnel, A-Shift Captain/EMT Zach Smallegan and Firefighter/EMT Joe Berra (pictured on the far right), were awarded with the prestigious East Central Region Life Saving Award. Also receiving the award with them were Joachim-Plattin Ambulance District Paramedics Cody Harrison and Beth Nelson (pictured center left).

On May 24, 2024, at approximately 8:42 pm, both sets of crews were on-duty when they received a call for a patient with Chest Pain at a residence. After responding and assessing the patient, Paramedics Harrison and Nelson transported the patient for further evaluation and treatment. Shortly after leaving the patient's residence, the patient suffered a witnessed cardiac arrest event in the ambulance. Captain Z. Smallegan and FF Berra intercepted the ambulance roadside and assisted Harrison and Nelson with providing Life Saving treatment resulting in the return of spontaneous circulation.

The teamwork, skill, and professionalism displayed by both crews in their life saving actions were exemplary! We are happy to report that this patient suffered no long term deficits from the cardiac event. In fact, the patient was even conscious and talking upon arrival at Jefferson Memorial Hospital as a result of the life saving treatment in the ambulance.

Hats off to all of you!