Currituck County Fire-Emergency Medical Services was honored to host a recent RACE CARS (Randomized Cluster Evaluation of Cardiac Arrest Systems) meeting, bringing together regional partners dedicated to enhancing cardiac arrest survival rates. This seven-year trial, led by the Duke Clinical Research Institute, collaborates with EMS agencies, hospitals, and community organizations across North Carolina to implement community-based interventions aimed at improving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes.
As one of 62 participating counties, Currituck is designated as an “intervention” county, focusing on increasing public awareness and training in CPR and AED usage. Initiatives include conducting CPR training sessions for teachers and staff across all Currituck County Schools and other county departments. Additionally, the program has equipped volunteer fire departments and Sheriff’s Department patrol vehicles with AEDs provided by the RACE CARS study, recognizing that deputies are often the first responders on scene.
During the meeting, the group celebrated a remarkable success story: bystanders and employees at the Currituck Wildlife Center in Corolla utilized an AED to resuscitate an individual experiencing cardiac arrest. The Wildlife Center employees were specifically recognized for their heroic actions and swift response, which directly saved a life. This incident underscores the critical importance of immediate intervention and the life-saving impact of accessible AEDs and trained individuals.
Currituck County’s 911 telecommunicators were recognized for their vital role in this successful resuscitation, providing critical instructions that helped ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, the Currituck Fire-EMS team that worked the cardiac arrest resuscitation was honored for their professionalism and dedication in this life-saving event.
Currituck County recently received nine additional AEDs from the program at no cost to the county. These devices, which are in addition to several previously received, will primarily be placed in Currituck County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicles to further enhance first response capabilities.
Several members from Perquimans County EMS also attended the meeting as RACE CARS program participants, demonstrating the regional collaboration and shared commitment to improving outcomes for cardiac arrest patients.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants and community members committed to this vital initiative.
