The introduction of new technologies has been critical to the success of Suffolk Fire and Rescue in recent years.

Despite the expensive new devices, it has “paid off significantly,” said Brian Spicer, one of the department’s deputy chiefs.

Within the last decade, the department has implemented cardiac monitors and automatic chest compressors into its emergency vehicles.

The implementation of the new technologies is part of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline program. The purpose of the program is to provide patients with fast and efficient treatments.

As a part of the program, the association recognizes emergency medical services nationwide for their efforts in improving care for patients.

In May, Suffolk Fire and Rescue was recognized with the program’s bronze award for its ability to demonstrate at least 75 percent compliance outlined in the association’s emergency guidelines.

The cardiac monitor, which runs at $32,000 apiece, recognizes cardiac blockages and provides a diagnosis on scene. Then, it sends the data to hospital cardiology units almost immediately.

“This coordinated care between EMS and hospitals shortens emergency department times and correlates with lower mortality,” Duke University medical professor Dr. Christopher B. Granger stated in an American Heart Association press release.

The chest compressor, ranging from $11,000 to $15,000, performs at least 100 compressions per minute.

Prior to obtaining the compressor, emergency medics had to continuously perform the compressions, which proved to be challenging and dangerous.

En route to the hospital, medics typically were not fastened in because they had to continue applying compressions. The compression device allows medics to attend to their safety, while administering care at the same time, Spicer said.

“This is a safety feature for both personnel and patients,” Spicer said.

Since the implementation of the devices, the survival rate of out-of-hospital heart attacks is more than 18 percent, compared to the national average of 11 percent, according to Spicer.

The new technology has helped increase the “frequency in which the department is saving people’s lives and the quality of their lives,” Spicer said.

The devices were funded by City Council and grants from the Department of Emergency Medical Services, the Obici Healthcare Foundation and Sentara Obici Hospital.

“They have been helpful and we appreciate all they have done,” Spicer said.

Despite the department’s recent success, Spicer feels the community has not been informed about the effectiveness of the new technologies.

“People often see the big fire stories on the news,” Spicer said. “But, they don’t hear about the father we saved that day. We are quietly saving lives each and every day.”