The donation of the $20,000 machine by Daly Holding Company and Pridestar Trinity EMS owner David Daly was officially accepted during the Board of Selectmen’s meeting on Jan. 27 after an unanimous vote from the board.

What is called a LUCAS device is an advanced mechanical chest compression system that ensures consistent, high-quality CPR while freeing up first responders to focus on other critical patient care tasks.

“We usually had to do compressions by hand. Now with this machine, the machine does the compressions and we’re able to package the patient for a quicker transport to the hospital,” Fire Capt. Andrew Murphy said.

Gathered with a group of fellow firefighters and EMTs as well as Daly, Murphy showed how they use the LUCAS machine in the field, strapping a dummy to it and lacing a strap behind the neck.

“If it is too high or too low, it will not work,” Murphy said, referring to the positioning of the dummy.

Murphy said the entire department is certified to use the new device, explaining training did not take long.

“Everyone did an online class and then we all had to do a practical with it. So we had our mannequins set up and every firefighter had to go through how to set it up and use the machine on the mannequin,” Murphy said.

Placing the pumping tool of the machine on the dummy’s chest, he activated it allowing the device to begin compressions. The dummy continued to light up green, signaling that each compression was a quality one.

“It truly is lifesaving, cutting-edge technology. Truly saves lives in the field. And, we’ve had a lot of good experience. I own Pride Star Trinity EMS. We have about eight of these in the field,” Daly said.

Daly said he was blown away when Murphy called to let him know the machine had already been used twice.

“Just really happy to be part of this process and donating this lifesaving piece of equipment,” Daly said.

Carrigan shared his gratitude that Daly decided to make the donation.