Little Rice Fire Department receives vital funding for Automated External Defibrillators

The Little Rice Fire Department, which provides fire protection and emergency medical services to the towns of Lynne and Little Rice, has announced the receipt of generous funding from Marshfield Clinic Health System, Inc. Community Engagement, CoVantage Cares Foundation, and the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation.

“This significant financial support, secured in late 2023, has enabled the purchase of critical life-saving equipment: Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for our first responders,” the department’s chief, Larry Mathein, announced in a press release. “In addition, we have now placed Public Access defibrillator units in some of the business establishments within our response area. We hope to continue this project in order to improve access to these life saving devices. Automated External Defibrillators are essential tools in emergency medical situations, particularly in addressing life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. The availability of AEDs allows our first responders to deliver swift and effective intervention during cardiac emergencies, dramatically increasing the chances of survival for victims of sudden cardiac arrest.”

“We are immensely grateful to the Marshfield Clinic Heath System Community Engagement, CoVantage Cares Foundation, and the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation for their contributions,” said Ellen Mathein, service director for Little Rice First Responders. “Their support not only enhances our emergency response capabilities but also underscores a shared commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our community.”

The procurement of these AEDs marks a significant milestone in the Little Rice Fire Department’s ongoing efforts to provide the highest standard of emergency medical care to communities we serve, the release states. The department’s personnel, are extensively trained in the use of AEDs, and are now better equipped than ever to respond to cardiac emergencies within the Lynne and Little Rice townships.

“This funding has been instrumental in bolstering our life-saving equipment,” said Mathein. “It ensures that when the worst happens, our team is ready with the best possible tools at their disposal.”

The Little Rice Fire Department extends its heartfelt thanks to the Marshfield Clinic Heath System Community Engagement, CoVantage Cares Foundation, and the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation for their generous support. It is through such collaborative efforts that we can continue to make a profound and positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

For more information about the Little Rice Fire Department, contact Chief Larry Mathein at 715-612-5514. 

The department is seeking fire and medical responders.