Sebring fire department recognized after May 7 cardiac arrest response; five given awards

Assistant Chief Austin Matic of the City of Sebring Fire Department told the council that on May 7 Sebring Engine 15 and Highlands County Rescue 10 responded to a cardiac arrest at a restaurant on Highway 27 and that prompt on-scene care helped save the patient’s life. “Engine 15 responded and were able to make it to the patient in 5 minutes and 12 seconds,” Matic said, and crews used an AED, started CPR and provided ventilations before paramedics established IV access and an advanced airway.

The patient was transported to Advent Health and taken immediately to the catheterization lab, Matic said. After the intervention the patient stabilized and was discharged home five days later. Matic thanked council, administration and taxpayers for supporting the city’s growing advanced life support capability and recognized hospital staff for their role: “I also want to recognize Jim Light from Advent Health and his Cath Lab team for their interventions that day.”

Why it matters: Sebring’s transition toward advanced life-support capability shortens response time for serious calls and can reduce mortality, officials said. The council and attendees applauded the five individuals who assisted on scene; Matic presented a plaque and challenge coins during the meeting. The recognition followed a proclamation honoring Emergency Medical Services Week.

Council response and context: Council members including Rebecca and David commended the department. Rebecca noted the program is “expensive” but said it has already resulted in lives saved. The exchange underscored the council’s recent emphasis on regional cooperation with Highlands County and other partners for emergency response.

What’s next: There was no council direction to change service levels; the awards and proclamation were ceremonial and informational. The city did not identify any new policy or funding action at the meeting.