Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – In a ceremony at Tuesday night’s city council meeting, the Orange Beach Fire Department took time  to honor its staff for their exceptional service, highlighting a recent incident that showcased the critical importance of a prompt and skilled emergency response with the right tools. Chief Jeff Smith, in addressing the city council and the public, underscored the department's commitment to recognizing the heroic efforts of its personnel, efforts that often go unnoticed despite their lifesaving impact.

On February 20th, a routine day transformed into a race against time when two surf rescue members, working on the new tower at Perdido Pass, were alerted by bystanders to a medical emergency that was occurring on the beach. Along with an off-duty firefighter who quickly joined in to assist, they discovered a 14-year-old boy in cardiac arrest, a situation that demanded immediate action.

The responders – Beach Safety Supervisors Cole Fincher and Robbie Bishop, and Advanced EMT Will Hearn – were the initial responders who initiated CPR and deployed an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Their efforts were crucial in the battle to save the young boy's life, maintaining vital functions until additional support could arrive.

As Station One's crew took over, advanced life support measures were escalated, including three more critical defibrillations during the rush to South Baldwin Hospital. It was there, on the third attempt, that their persistence was rewarded with the strongest sign of hope: a heartbeat. The teamwork and advanced medical intervention had turned the tide, stabilizing the patient for further treatment at Sacred Heart Hospital, where he made a remarkable recovery, free from neurological deficits.

This incident not only highlights the exceptional bravery and expertise of the Orange Beach Fire Department's staff but also underscores the significance of having the right equipment and training. The use of a Lucas device, an automated CPR machine, was cited as a game-changer in the treatment of cardiac arrest patients, showcasing the department's commitment to employing cutting-edge technology in lifesaving efforts.

The ceremony served as a reminder of the critical role that emergency responders play in the community, a role that often goes unrecognized until moments of dire need. Chief Smith's call to celebrate these heroes more frequently resonated with all present, emphasizing the shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Orange Beach residents and visitors alike.

Tuesday night’s ceremony highlighted the collective excellence of the Orange Beach Fire Department, a factor contributing to the city's reputation as a safe and caring community. This event not only honored the immediate actions taken on February 20th but also recognized the ongoing dedication and professionalism of the entire department.

Chief Smith and Deputy Chief Bruce Nelson resented certificates to the following firefighters, with Will Hearn and Tyler Hearn unable to attend Tuesday night’s meeting. 

Off Duty:

• Firefighter/Advanced EMT Will Hearn

Surf Rescue:

• Beach Safety Supervisor Cole Fincher
• Beach Safety Supervisor Robbie Bishop

Fire Rescue 1:

• Fire/Medic Tyler Hearn
• Fire/Medic Jake Lambert

Fire Engine 1:

• Engineer/EMT Johnnie Sundie
• Fire/Medic Philip Stewart
• Firefighter/EMT Jack Kyte
• Resident Firefighter Christian Butler

Battalion 1:

• Battalion Chief David Gant

As Orange Beach continues to earn accolades for its community spirit and safety, incidents like these stand as a reminder of the value of preparedness, teamwork, and the human capacity to make a difference in the most critical moments.