The only definitive treatment for SCA is a defibrillation shock ‐ an electrical pulse through the heart ‐ which restores a normal heart rhythm. The chance of an SCA victim&squo;s survival decreases by 10 percent for every minute that passes. In order to be effective, defibrillation must be administered within the first few minutes of SCA. As a first responder organization, Tryon Fire often is on scene several minutes ahead of Polk County EMS and can thus administer a shock within a few minutes of dispatch. Tryon also serves the Lake Lanier portion of Greenville County and these AEDs will provide lifesaving support to those citizens as well. &bsp;

&dquo;This is a very important grant to us&dquo; says Tryon Fire Chief Joey Davis.&bsp; &dquo;Equipped with AEDs firefighters can not only protect each other, but members of our community who are counting on us for help. This has not only been a goal of the TFD to increase the number of AEDs we have on apparatus, but also an area of concern for our town council as they understand the importance of these devices. Working together with our council and the Chamber Foundation we have been able to enhance this area of our medical program.&dquo;

For more information on this program, contact the Tryon Fire Department at 828-859-9566.