Chief Bengoa-Bollinger awarded Engineer Hoffman of the Susanville Fire Department and Officer Ortiz of the Susanville Police Department with Life Saving Awards.
These two men received these awards for outstanding performance in the saving of a human life, and the display of bravery, capability, and attention to duty; earning respect and admiration for themselves and the Department.
A few weeks back, Engineer Hoffman and Officer Ortiz were returning from dive team training at Crater Lake. While traveling back to Susanville, they observed a vehicle stopped on the side of the road with a male standing near a female, who was lying on the ground. Recognizing a possible emergency, they stopped without hesitation to render assistance. Upon assessment, the female was found to be in serious respiratory distress and in need of immediate medical assistance. Both Ortiz and Hoffman quickly coordinated with the local dispatch center (SIFC) and established a plan to transport the patient in Officer Ortiz’s personal vehicle, with Engineer Hoffman rendering care in the backseat. During transport, they were able to coordinate with a US Forest Service Engine and obtain medical supplies and oxygen. With these resources, Engineer Hoffman was able to stabilize the patient’s breathing, while Officer Ortiz maintained communications with the dispatch center. Officer Ortiz coordinated a police escort through Susanville to expedite arrival to the Hospital. The woman sustained a bug bite and was nearing anaphylaxis shock. Thanks to both men’s quick thinking, coordination, and decisive actions, they arrived safely, and she was provided with a higher level of care.
