Lookingglass Fire District Secures Cardiac Monitor Through Community Donations

LOOKINGGLASS, Ore. — The Lookingglass Rural Fire District (LRFD) has reached a major milestone in its commitment to improving emergency medical care, announcing the purchase of its first-ever cardiac monitor — a critical life-saving tool that will enhance how responders assess and treat patients in cardiac distress.

The purchase was made possible entirely through community partnerships and donations, with $22,500 in total funding provided by two generous contributors:

• Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians – $10,000 donation
• Ford Family Foundation (Good Neighbor Grant) – $12,500 award

Combined, these contributions covered nearly the entire project cost, allowing the district to move forward without increasing costs for taxpayers.

“Our community has made it clear they don’t want new or higher taxes,” LRFD said in a statement. “We are proud to honor that by seeking grants and donations to obtain life-saving equipment without adding financial burden.”

Funding Smart, Serving Smarter

While LRFD originally planned to purchase a new ZOLL X Series Advanced Cardiac Monitor, costing roughly $47,000 before accessories, the district made a strategic decision to acquire a refurbished ZOLL X Series Cardiac Monitor instead. The refurbished unit provides the same reliability and advanced features at a significantly reduced cost.

Breakdown of project expenses:

• Refurbished cardiac monitor: $18,765
• 3-year preventive maintenance warranty: $975
• Accessories (EKG electrodes, BP cuffs, defibrillator pads, charger, etc.): $4,117.72
• Training aids for responders: $1,211.14
  Total project cost: $25,068.86
  Community donations: $22,500
  LRFD contribution: $2,568.86

Improving Patient Outcomes

The new monitor will allow LRFD responders to obtain an EKG immediately upon arrival, giving Paramedics vital information before patient transport.

In cardiac arrest situations, the district’s new defibrillator pads are fully interchangeable with those used by Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and Umpqua Valley Ambulance, which use the same ZOLL model. This compatibility ensures seamless coordination between agencies, faster care, and reduced disposable waste.

Once a call concludes, responders can quickly decontaminate, restock, and return the device to service, ensuring the district remains ready for the next emergency within minutes.

Training and Deployment

LRFD expects the cardiac monitor to arrive soon. Once delivered, responders will begin in-service training to familiarize themselves with the equipment and prepare for immediate field deployment.

“This investment ensures that our responders have the tools and training needed to deliver the highest level of cardiac care — right here in our community,” the district said.

LRFD thanked all who contributed letters of support and encouragement throughout the process, noting that the success of the project reflects the power of local collaboration and shared commitment to public safety.

To learn more about the ZOLL X Series Cardiac Monitor and other initiatives, visit the Lookingglass Rural Fire District website.