A March 21, 2022 call to Harrison Fire Department for a “lift assist” turned into an opportunity to save a life.
Captain Doug Nusekabel, Firefighter and Paramedic Daric Hamon, Firefighter and Paramedic Andrew Hardwick, and Firefighter and EMT Michael Orlando were dispatched to a private residence. When they helped a senior adult up, she became unresponsive. For the first time in their careers, Nusekabel and Hamon provided life-saving CPR. It would be the second CPR save for Hardwick and Orlando.
The first responders continued to care for the patient as she was transported to the hospital. She was released six days later.
City of Harrison Fire Department Chief William Hursong presented the Blue Maltese Award to the firefighters during the June 7, 2022 City Council meeting.
“This outstanding performance as first responders is a great reflection of these gentlemen and the City of Harrison,” Hursong said.
Each firefighter was given a citation in their personnel file and a ribbon to display on their dress uniform.
The Harrison Fire Department staffs 10 people at two stations each day to provide a high level of firefighting and paramedic services. The department maintains a Class 2 ISO rating.
Pictured (L to R): Daric Hamon, Andrew Hardwick, William Hursong, Michael Orlando, Doug Nusekabel