The LUCAS device attaches around a victim in need of CPR via a plate that slides under the back and connects to a mechanized arch with a centered piston, positioned above the victim.  

Once assembled, and with a battery engaged, LUCAS will perform chest compressions until the battery runs out, which lasts about 30 to 40 minutes.

“We’ve got two batteries, so we can get an hour or more of automated, hands-free compressions,” said Fire Chief Mike Knoup. “If all else fails, it has a plug that goes into an electrical outlet to continue compressions, and we have those in the ambulances.”

But the decision to purchase an MXV 4-man International pumper for $361,658, Dodge 12-foot rescue truck for $141,475 and a 3000 IG tanker for $283,577 didn’t sit well with Ald. Ted Hessels.  

Hessels, a volunteer firefighter for more than two decades, agreed the township could use the new pumper truck, but not new rescue and tanker trucks.

“I’m not for it. The rescue truck is not the truck we need … I’m not totally against the tanker, but we didn’t get any other quotes,” he said.

Hessels, in his third term on council, said there wasn’t a lot of time to read the report on the purchase. During the meeting, he said Ald. Betty Konc asked for the report to be deferred to council’s Dec. 5 meeting, but that motion was defeated.