A volunteer fire department proves small crews can deliver big results when equipped with the right tools.
The North Madison Volunteer Fire Company (NMVFC) serves roughly 17,000 residents across a sprawling response area. Like many volunteer departments, they face the constant challenge of doing more with fewer hands. (Read Full Case Study Here)
A Century of Service Meets Modern Innovation
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, the North Madison Volunteer Fire Company has deep roots in community service. But tradition hasn’t kept them from embracing innovation.
Donated by the local organization Madison Jaycees, the department’s new ARM XR device quickly proved to be more than a nice-to-have. “Prior to receiving the ARM XR device, we would arrive on scene and administer traditional, manual CPR,” said Fire Chief Michael Penders. “The ARM XR changed all that. From clinical outcomes to resource deployment, it’s been nothing but exceptional.”
“The one thing that really has to stay constant in a [cardiac arrest] event is continuous CPR,” Penders explained. “Without the ARM XR, we wouldn’t always be able to provide that.”
The Results: Measurable, Life-Changing
NMVFC’s early cases with the ARM XR have been remarkably successful. “For us, it can be 30 to 45 minutes easily for the average transport to the hospital,” said Penders. “The device runs the entire time without fatigue or interruptions.”
In fact, the department’s first two deployments of the ARM XR both resulted in pre-hospital ROSC. One of those patients, who suffered cardiac arrest while working out at a local gym — was discharged from the hospital a week later with no deficits. “He’s alive and well and still working out at the same gym today,” Penders said.
For a volunteer department, that kind of outcome isn’t just data, it’s validation. It means their investment, training, and teamwork are paying off in the most meaningful way possible.
A Standard for the Future
Today, the North Madison Volunteer Fire Company considers the ARM XR essential equipment for every cardiac arrest response. “It allows us to do more with less and ensures our patients receive the best care possible,” said Penders. “Across the board, I recommend it for ease of application, ease of deployment, and solid clinical outcomes. It’s a life-saving investment every department should consider.”
As for what’s next, NMVFC hopes their success story encourages other volunteer and rural departments to follow suit. “Without the generosity of the Madison Jaycees, purchasing it might not have been possible for us in the short term,” Penders said. “But now that we have it, I can’t imagine responding without it.”
Why this Matters for EMS Leaders
This isn’t just about one department’s success, it’s a roadmap for how automation, teamwork, and local partnerships can transform cardiac arrest response, in any environment.
A CPR device does not replace people; it unlocks them. In the world of volunteer EMS, that can make all the difference.
Read the full North Madison case study to see how this small-town department is redefining cardiac care.
Shared with permission from Defibtech, LLC.
