Members of the Gananoque Fire Service were honoured last Wednesday evening with Lifesaver Awards in recognition of their actions during two separate medical emergencies that resulted in lives being saved.
The awards were presented to community safety officer Dillon Champagne, platoon chief Paul Lloyd, deputy fire chief Andrew Kent, captains Sean Kraft and Kevin Conway, and firefighters Alan Smith, Mackenzie Vanslake, Alex Hutcheson, Tyler Lajivardi, Peter Stocker and Travis MacNeil.
A Lifesaver Award is presented when emergency responders treat a patient who has gone into cardiac arrest and, through immediate medical care, the patient recovers well enough to be discharged from hospital.
According to the fire service, the two incidents highlighted the importance of rapid response, effective teamwork and continued medical training. Officials said the actions taken by the members directly changed the outcome of life-threatening emergencies.
The Gananoque Fire Service also acknowledged the role of emergency dispatchers, noting their professionalism, co-ordination and support play a critical role in successful outcomes during emergency responses.
Fire officials said the recognition reflects the dedication and skill of the service's members and underscores the service’s commitment to protecting the community and saving lives.