Defibrillators Arrive in Orleans

Updated life-saving devices join Orleans Fire

What happened at the Orleans Fire Department?

07 March 2025 - ORLEANS, MA - A vote at the last Town Meeting in Orleans set aside funds for a four new defibrillators; these potentially life-saving devices got their first test drive this week at the fire department.

Why did the town need new defibrillators?

Cardiac monitors have been used as part of life-saving technology since the 1970s and like other technology it improves dramatically over time. In addition, like any other computer devices, the defibrillators have a limited life span. Orleans Fire Chief Geoff Deering says the last defibrillators dated from 2008. "It was time," he said.

Why do defibrillators matter?

The devices save lives. With hospital a half hour or more drive away, having the devices at points for first response make a significant difference.  "One of the capabilities that our EMTs have is to interpret an EKG" said Deering. "We can recognize that here in Orleans and communicate that information to Cape Cod hospital. What that does is sets up a whole line of events that gets people to cardiac care they need that much sooner."