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New Device Could Save Heart Attack Victims In Zephyrhills

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By LAURA KINSLER | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 3, 2008

ZEPHYRHILLS - First responders in Zephyrhills have a new lifesaving tool to help heart attack victims.

Today, both Zephyrhills Fire Rescue stations received new "Auto-Pulse" equipment that provides mechanical CPR to patients in cardiac arrest. The device can improve a victim's chance of survival by four times.

"Cardiac arrest is one of our most frequent calls for service," Chief Glen Clegg said. "I've had days where I've gone out on four cardiac arrest calls."

Clegg, a certified CPR instructor, said the Auto-Pulse provides more consistent compressions, and never gets tired.

"I perform picture-perfect CPR, and I can't compete," he said.

Each unit cost $15,000. The department won a grant from the Florida Bureau of Emergency Medical Services to cover 50 percent of the cost.

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