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Franklin County 911 Dispatcher Honored For Assisting Resident In Cardiac Arrest

Emergency Services

March 05, 2025

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners today joined the Emergency Health Services Federation (EHSF) in recognizing Franklin County Department of Emergency Services 911 telecommunicator Payton Timmons for his role in saving the life of a Greene Township woman in December.

On Dec. 31, Timmons answered a call for a patient in cardiac arrest. Timmons successfully provided the caller with instructions and dispatched the appropriate resources to assist the patient. The patient was successfully resuscitated and transported to the hospital to receive additional care. She has since returned home and is doing well.

For his efforts, Timmons received an EHSF Clinical Save Commendation in recognition of his exemplary emergency medical dispatching on behalf of an area resident. Timmons has been employed with Franklin County since October 2022.

“We are continuously impressed by individuals like Payton who have the knowledge and composure to help our residents through incredibly stressful, difficult situations,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst. “The job of a 911 telecommunicator is one that requires a lot of hard work, hours of training and a cool head, and we’re thankful that Payton’s skills resulted in a positive outcome for both he and one of our citizens.”

“Time is the critical factor when dealing with cardiac arrest. The sooner someone can be dispatched with defibrillation capabilities, the better chance of survival,” said EHSF Executive Director C. Steven Lyle. “Were it not for your quick actions, this patient may never have had a chance of survival.”

EHSF commended Timmons on his commitment to the community through working in the emergency services system and supporting emergency management services programs in Franklin County.