Lebanon Fire District Recognizes Bystanders For Life-Saving Efforts In Cardiac Arrest Incident (Photo) -03/12/25
On February 6, 2025, the Lebanon Fire District (LFD) responded to a cardiac arrest at the local Safeway, where an employee suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while preparing for a shift in the break room. The quick thinking and heroic actions of four Safeway employees—Mary Stratton, John Escalera, Brandy Davis, and Tammy Vanepps-Fox—saved their co-worker’s life.
The employees immediately sprang into action, performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to shock the patient twice before emergency responders arrived. Their quick response gave the patient a fighting chance at survival. Upon arrival, LFD crews continued treatment, applying two more shocks and ultimately achieving Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) before stabilizing the patient. LFD crews transported the patient to the hospital, where they were discharged several days later.
"A partnership with the community through early CPR, AED access, and prompt activation of 911 leads to successful outcomes," said Fire Chief Rodondi. "Without bystander CPR and early access to an AED, the outcome would have been very different."
At the Lebanon Fire District’s March Board Meeting on March 11, 2025, Stratton, Escalera, Davis, and Vanepps-Fox were honored for their lifesaving efforts.
LFD also extends special thanks to its dedicated crew members for their prompt and professional response to the emergency: Battalion Chief Blaine Suing, Lieutenant Michael Maynard, Lieutenant Jason Adamson, Engineer Kyle Kemper, Engineer Brad McInnis, Engineer Cody Manzi, Firefighter Dylan Jorgenson, Firefighter Londyn Randell, Firefighter Conner Fitzgerald, Fire Corp Deb Griffin, and Intern James Kanchenko.
The Lebanon Fire District encourages the community to stay prepared and informed. A key resource for individuals interested in learning how to respond to emergencies is the PulsePoint app, which provides real-time notifications for nearby cardiac emergencies and helps users locate AEDs in the area. The app also provides CPR instructions for emergencies. Learn more about PulsePoint and how to download the app by visiting lebanonfireoregon.gov/321/PulsePoint.
The Lebanon Fire District also encourages the community to consider CPR and AED training programs, as they are vital skills that can make a life-saving difference.
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of how critical early intervention can be in a cardiac emergency. The Lebanon Fire District extends its deepest gratitude to Mary Stratton, John Escalera, Brandy Davis, and Tammy Vanepps-Fox for their selfless and courageous actions. Their quick action made all the difference, and their efforts are truly commendable.
