WATCH: Health First Provides Malabar Fire Department Powerful New Life Saving Tool

LUCAS device is portable, battery-operated mechanical chest compression system that delivers automated, consistent CPR

WATCH: Thanks to a donation from Health First, the Malabar Fire Department now has a LUCAS (Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System) device—a portable, battery-operated mechanical chest compression system that delivers automated, consistent CPR.

LUCAS device delivers nonstop CPR and ensures better outcomes in emergencies

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — In a small town where firefighters often respond with just a two-person crew and rely on volunteers to fill the gaps, new equipment can make all the difference.

Thanks to a donation from Health First, the Malabar Fire Department now has a LUCAS (Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System) device—a portable, battery-operated mechanical chest compression system that delivers automated, consistent CPR.

When someone is unresponsive, time is everything. Quality chest compressions keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and vital organs until a pulse can be restored. But performing manual CPR is grueling, and fatigue quickly sets in—even for the most seasoned responders.

The LUCAS device eliminates that challenge by providing uninterrupted compressions at the correct depth and rate, every time.

This not only gives patients the best possible chance for survival and neurological recovery but also frees first responders to focus on other urgent tasks, such as diagnosis, airway management, or administering lifesaving medications.

The device is even designed with transport in mind. Its secure straps keep the patient stabilized, while compressions continue during movement—something that’s nearly impossible for a human provider to maintain effectively.

For Malabar, a small department with limited personnel, the difference is enormous.

Malabar Fire Chief Joseph Hooker says the donation is nothing short of transformational.

“It’s a vital piece of equipment that essentially frees up an entire firefighter,” Hooker explained. “Because we often operate with just a two-man engine, having the LUCAS device ensures CPR is handled with precision and consistency while our team can attend to other critical needs. For us, that’s huge.”

He added that the donation was particularly meaningful because of the department’s limited budget.

“We really appreciate Health First providing this for us,” Hooker said. “It’s not something we could have purchased on our own. But it is vital, and now it’s in service in our community.”

After delivery, Malabar’s firefighters received training on the device. It’s now ready for use in the field—a reassurance for residents who know that cardiac emergencies can strike without warning.

For Health First, the donation isn’t just about a piece of equipment. It’s about strengthening what experts call the “chain of survival”—a series of critical steps that can dramatically improve outcomes for cardiac arrest patients.

Nadyra Ingram, EMS Clinical Account Executive of Growth and Development at Health First, says the LUCAS device bridges the gap between pre-hospital and hospital care.

“Having the LUCAS device in the town of Malabar not only benefits the citizens directly, but it ensures a continuum of care,” Ingram said.

“When patients arrive at the emergency room, we know they’ve received evidence-based compressions at the right depth and rate. That makes a tremendous difference.”
She also emphasized the importance of the partnership behind the donation.

“The town of Malabar has only a single station, and the fact that Health First was able to provide such a significant piece of equipment is tremendous for the citizens of Brevard,” Ingram said. “It’s a great example of how EMS, hospitals and community organizations can work together for the greater good.”

Health First has long supported community health initiatives across Brevard County, funding everything from advanced medical technology to expanded care programs.

This donation continues that commitment, ensuring departments of all sizes—like Malabar’s—have access to lifesaving equipment that strengthens emergency response and improves patient outcomes.

“At Palm Bay Hospital, we believe that every second counts when it comes to saving lives,” said Kyle Baxter, Community Hospital President, Palm Bay Hospital at Health First.

“That’s why we’re proud to donate a LUCAS chest compression system to our local EMS team. This device delivers consistent, high-quality CPR during cardiac emergencies, giving patients a better chance at survival—especially in the critical moments before they reach the hospital.”

By equipping first responders with advanced tools like the LUCAS device, Health First is not only enhancing emergency care but also reaffirming its commitment to the health, safety and well-being of everyone in the community.

We’re grateful for the tireless work of our EMS professionals, and we’re honored to stand beside them in this life-saving effort,” Baxter added.

The significance of the donation extends beyond technology. For Malabar’s firefighters and volunteers, it provides confidence in the field and reassurance to families in crisis.

Cardiac arrest is one of the most time-sensitive medical emergencies, and survival depends on immediate, high-quality CPR and defibrillation. Malabar’s firefighters already respond with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and strong emergency skills.

With the addition of the LUCAS device, the department can build on that foundation, delivering uninterrupted compressions while freeing responders to focus on other lifesaving tasks.

Malabar residents may never see the LUCAS device in action, but its presence could mean everything in a life-or-death moment. Whether on the roadside, in a living room, or during transport to the hospital, the device offers uninterrupted, high-quality CPR when it matters most.

For a town that relies on a small crew and volunteers, the gift also reflects a larger truth: community health is a shared responsibility. Health First’s donation underscores the power of partnerships and the impact of investing in local first responders.

As Ingram put it, “This is about making sure every patient, no matter where they live, has the best possible chance at survival.”

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