Every Daviess County Sheriff’s Office patrol cruiser is now equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED), thanks to donations from area businesses, organizations, and individuals.
The milestone marks the successful completion of a two-year effort led by DCSO Patrol Division Commander Captain Duane Harper, who pushed to give deputies better tools to respond to medical emergencies.
“It is fairly common for DCSO patrol units to arrive at the scene of a serious medical emergency before an ambulance does,” said Sheriff Brad Youngman. “Having an AED can absolutely mean the difference between life and death and give my deputies a decent chance at saving the person’s life.”
Harper said the push stemmed from emotional calls where deputies arrived before emergency medical personnel.
“You know the ambulance is coming, but you still want to be able to do something to save this person,” he said. “Their loved ones are watching you, desperate for you to take action. I wanted to make sure that every deputy has a chance of keeping that person alive until the ambulance arrives and takes over.”
The AEDs used by DCSO are compatible with devices used by the Daviess County Fire Department, Owensboro Fire Department, and AMR Ambulance Service. That compatibility allows for a seamless transition of care once those agencies arrive on scene.
The AEDs were funded through donations from Firehouse Subs, Glenn Family Services, Kentucky Farm Bureau, McCarty’s Pro Towing & Automotive, Evergreen Lawn Care, Daviess County Fiscal Court, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Yellowbanks 4168 and its auxiliary, and several anonymous donors.
In addition to AEDs, DCSO cruisers carry Narcan, tourniquets, and clotting kits. All deputies and detectives also have personal trauma kits and have undergone “Stop the Bleed” training provided by Owensboro Health Regional Hospital.
DCSO has also established a Tactical Emergency Medical Service Unit and partners with the Daviess County Fire Department for a Rescue Task Force, all aimed at enhancing life-saving capabilities.
“Our goal is to ensure that each deputy has as many tools as possible at their disposal to be able to save someone’s life when needed,” Youngman said. “I sincerely appreciate Captain Harper’s diligence as well as the kindness and compassion of these donors for seeing his vision and helping make it a reality.”
