With the backing of the town's Board of Selectmen, the Atkinson Fire Department announced on June 18th the early success of a new staffing plan that added a third firefighter/EMT on duty weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Recently, when workers rushed to a resident experiencing a heart attack, officials claimed the extra manpower proved beneficial. In less than three minutes, three on-duty firefighters and EMTs arrived on the site, and Plaistow ALS responded concurrently to deliver advanced life support. While coordinating care with paramedics, the bigger team promptly evaluated the patient, identified the cardiac emergency, transferred the patient to the ambulance, and started transport within minutes.

In order to activate its cardiac catheterization laboratory prior to the patient's arrival and become ready for final treatment, responders sent a 12-lead EKG to Parkland Medical Center.

The prompt actions of the patient's family, the 911 call center, dispatchers, Atkinson police, firefighters/EMTs, paramedics, and hospital staff were credited by department leaders for the fortunate outcome. According to officials, the event showed how effective staffing and coordinated emergency response may be crucial in life-threatening medical situations.