Ross County – Four Fire Fighters Honored for Saving a Life

On June 15, 2022, four area firefighters helped save the life of a 56-year old man at the Atomic Raceway in Chillicothe.

The response came when the truck the gentleman was driving slammed into the wall of the track. First responders who work for the Atomic Speedway began assessing the person’s condition immediately. Seeing he
was in apparent cardiac arrest, firefighters who are EMTs went into action, calling 911, beginning compressions and using an automated external defibrillator.

The four firefighters, from three different fire departments, worked closely as a team, along with other responders. They continued the life-saving procedures and maintained patient care while transporting him to
the hospital. Nominator Charlie Vest, a co-worker of the firefighters, wrote “They assembled as a team,” with quick action including “recognition of the medical emergency, early activation of 911, immediate CPR and ventilation, an airway and rapid defibrillation. I believe the training and skills these men possess contributed to the success of this situation.”

The patient reportedly recovered and returned to work. “He is alive solely because of the brave actions our crew members took,” their co-worker added. He credited “recognition of the medical emergency, early activation of 911, immediate CPR and ventilation, an airway and rapid defibrillation.”

Honored for their heroic and lifesaving actions were: Russell Aikman and Carlos Chafins III, Scioto Township Fire Department, Ryan Mowery, Franklin Township Fire and Rescue, and Tyler Russell, Liberty Township Fire Department. They received the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action in a ceremony at the Red Cross Chapter House in Chillicothe.

“The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is given to individuals, like these, who step up in an emergency situation and help save or sustain a life,” said Chapter Executive Director Katie Uhl. “These individuals exemplify the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies and are to be commended for their willingness to help others in distress.”