KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Today, King County Executive Ron Sims joined with King County Medic One Paramedics and other officials at Renton Fire Department, Station 14 to honor individuals and a distinguished community partner who have provided lifesaving services for the community.

"Our Medic One system and paramedics are world class, but at times help is needed before they arrive," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "These local lifesavers provided a needed assist at a critical moment, making the difference in keeping victims alive."

Awards were given to three King County employees, Jamie Camlin, Susan Habeck and Charles Torian, who called 911 and provided life-saving CPR to a cardiac arrest victim in November at the Orillia Road Transfer Station until emergency crews arrived. Their quick action helped in the successful resuscitation of the patient.

Ms. Chris Fischer, the director of Valley Communications, received the Distinguished Teamwork Award for the 911-dispatch center's outstanding work in the handling of emergency medical alarms. In addition, Executive Sims presented several awards to King County Medic One paramedics and other employees for their distinguished service to King County residents.

It has been proven that patients who receive CPR started by a bystander have a greater chance for survival than those who do not. To obtain or update CPR training in King County outside of Seattle, residents may contact their local fire department. Inside the City of Seattle, residents may contact Seattle Medic II at 206-684-7274.

King County Medic One operates seven Medic One units in south King County, providing the advanced, paramedic response to the first-aid service provided by local fire departments. King County Medic One, funded through a County-wide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Levy, responds to about 12,000 emergency medical alarms each year. For more information on King County Medic One, visit www.metrokc.gov/health/medicone.