To the editor:

Monday morning, a member of my walking group suffered a medical emergency. Two members of the group, as well as a Bainbridge Island Parks & Rec employee (who just happened to be on-site and who just happened to be a volunteer EMT) went into action.

The fire and police departments were prompt responders and our friend was airlifted to Harborview.

The Bainbridge parks employee said it was fortunate that someone knew CPR and that the fire department had a defibrillator available, as they likely saved our friend’s life.

A VERY BIG THANK YOU to these folks, and, the next time there’s a ballot measure asking you to support the fire and police departments, please support them. They need to have the facilities, training and personnel in-place to be able to respond to emergencies.

And, our fire department offers CPR training on the fourth Monday of each month. It’s free. Please sign up at http://www.bifd.org/cpr-training.aspx.

It might be you who is closest and saves the life of your friend or loved one.

JO HANSEN

Bainbridge Island

Election