BEDFORD – Six individuals working in support of the Hoosier National Forest prescribed fire program were presented with a Special Regional Forester Honor Award recently in recognition of their exceptional response to an emergency situation, and a demonstration of the USDA Forest Service’s commitment to safety.
The Regional Forester, Gina Owens, honored the following individuals, each of whom was integral to saving the life of an unresponsive firefighter last spring:
- Terry Severson—Forest Fire Management Officer and EMR
- Lauren Zack—Engine Crew Member and EMT
- Tyler Hatfield—Engine Crew Member and EMT
- Jason Combs—Timber Management Assistant
- Mike Bishop—Lands Program Manager
- Gage Otto—AD Firefighter/Prescribed Fire Support and EMT
The award was presented by Andrea Crain, Public Affairs Officer, and it was accepted on behalf of the group by Jason Combs who described his actions upon first discovering the unresponsive man including calling for assistance and contacting 911.
“While medical emergencies are thankfully infrequent, being prepared to provide an immediate medical response is promoted year-round. The ability of Hoosier National Forest employees to perform emergency actions was made possible through regular training, consistent emergency equipment inspections, and cultivation of a working environment where teamwork and communication are paramount,” said Andrea Crain in presenting the award.
As part of their commitment to safety, all Forest Service personnel at the Hoosier National Forest regularly attend first-aid and CPR training. This includes training in the use of an AED device.
Background on the incident
In April of 2022 at the end of a 450-acre prescribed fire in the Indian-Celina Lakes Recreation Area, Forest Service personnel found a firefighter unresponsive near his vehicle. Though unknown at the time, the individual had suffered a major heart attack. Firefighters acted quickly to assess the situation and call in additional support.
Lauren Zack, a Forest Service EMT, began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and rescue breaths. Supporting firefighters deployed an automated external defibrillator (AED) to help assess and revive their unresponsive colleague. These efforts continued for nearly 20 minutes, ending when local rescue personnel arrived on the scene. The individual was transported via air ambulance to a local hospital where he underwent surgery. He has made a full recovery and was back participating in prescribed fires this spring.
Regional Forester Honor Awards are presented to regional Forest Service personnel who show an outstanding commitment to conservation, safety, interdependence, diversity, integrity, service to others, and demonstration of the agency’s core values. These awards are presented annually.
