Lisbon Fire Department Achieves HEART Safe Community

    The Connecticut Department of Health along with the American Heart Association have officially announced that the town of Lisbon has been distinguished as a Heart Safe Community.  This recognition has been a major accomplishment for the town of Lisbon and even more so for the Lisbon Fire Department.  This achievement is especially satisfying for the individuals who put their time and effort into the program, and let it be known that their work does not go without recognition.

    As of 3/1/2007 only 10 out of the 169 towns in Connecticut have attained this status.  A Heart Safe Community is achieved when program requirements are met such as having Automated External Deliberators (AED's) in public buildings and certifying staff and community residents in CPR.  The Lisbon Fire Department is working on getting all of the stores in Lisbon Landing on board with the program as to make the town of Lisbon an even safer place to visit.

   There is after all, one primary goal of the program, which is to save lives.  The CPR trained first responders can greatly help the EMS service by recognizing cardiac arrest emergencies early and take action.  With AED's in close proximity to a sudden cardiac arrest victim, and individuals who are CPR certified nearby, the chances of survival are greatly increased. 

   If you are an individual who would like to learn about how to become CPR certified contact the Lisbon Fire Department at 860-376-2558.  If you are a member a town that who would like to become eligible for the Heart Safe Community you can download an application from the State Department Public Health website at: www.dph.state.ct.us or get in touch with Gary St. Amand at gary.stamand@po.state.ct.us or 860-509-7581.