GOLDSBORO – Wayne County EMS and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office have teamed up to reduce response times for cardiac arrests. The County recently supported the purchase of 20 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to be placed in Sheriff’s Office vehicles, enabling deputies to assist when they are closest to a 911 caller’s location.
In 2024, first responders were dispatched to 192 cardiac arrests, where quick intervention often means the difference between life and death. Before deployment, deputies received training in AED use, CPR, and Stop the Bleed techniques.
Every minute without CPR during a cardiac arrest lowers survival rates by 10 percent. AEDs improve outcomes by analyzing heart rhythms and delivering shocks to reset normal function. While not all cardiac arrests require defibrillation, AEDs can be lifesaving when needed.
When a 911 call comes into the Wayne County 911 Center, a telecommunicator determines the location and severity of the incident. While gathering information, the telecommunicator will dispatch responders, including EMS and the appropriate fire department. When a cardiac arrest is identified, the telecommunicator will coach the caller through CPR procedures. With these added AEDs, the telecommunicator can now determine if a deputy is close to the location and dispatch them to the call to begin administering aid.
“This partnership is another great example of the Wayne County public safety community’s dedication towards protecting its citizens and those who visit our county,” said EMS Director Dave Cuddeback.
Sheriff Larry Pierce added, “I am very excited about the ability of deputies to respond quickly to cardiac events as they patrol the county.”
Most recent data reveals that 72 percent of cardiac arrests within Wayne County occur in a residence and not in a public place. If you are interested in learning CPR or hosting a CPR training event, please send a request e-mail to david.cuddeback@waynegov.com.
