The Arlington Fire Department, in collaboration with the Arlington Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has announced the use of $17,815.76 from national opioid settlement funds to purchase a LUCAS® Chest Compression System—an advanced, evidence-based device that improves outcomes during opioid-related cardiac arrests. 

This investment is informed by recent guidance from the American Heart Association (AHA) on the treatment of Opioid-Associated Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OA-OHCA). The AHA emphasizes the importance of delivering uninterrupted, high-quality chest compressions and effective ventilation, both of which are supported by the LUCAS system. 

“The opioid epidemic continues to affect communities across Massachusetts, including right here in Arlington,” said Fire Chief Kevin Kelley. “By using settlement funds to purchase the LUCAS device, we’re investing in technology that directly improves our emergency response and saves lives.” 

The LUCAS Chest Compression System provides consistent, mechanical chest compressions with fewer interruptions than manual CPR, a key factor in increasing survival rates during cardiac arrest. This is particularly critical for opioid overdoses, which often lead to respiratory arrest followed by cardiac arrest. 

“This is a public health-driven decision,” said Colleen Leger, Director of Health and Human Services. “The LUCAS system supports our first responders in providing timely, effective care for opioid overdoses—an area where minutes can mean the difference between life and death.” 

The addition of the LUCAS system ensures that Arlington Fire is better equipped to handle opioid-related emergencies and deliver care that aligns with the most current clinical guidelines. 

The device will be placed in a frontline emergency vehicle and supported by training for first responders this fall. 

For more information on Arlington’s opioid response efforts, visit: 
https://www.arlingtonma.gov/departments/health-human-services/prevention-services

 
Arlington Fire Fighters conducting CPR training with the LUCAS Chest Compression System.