Firefighter/Paramedic Nathan Mack (left), helps install this year's banner at SPFD Station No. 1, 1733 Franklin St., on Jan. 30. (Metro Wire photo)

County paramedics kick off fourth annual ‘Keep the Heart Red’ campaign

By Brandi Makuski

PORTAGE COUNTY — The Stevens Point Fire Department, in partnership with Portage County Ambulance Service, is teaming up with Amherst and Plover EMS for the fourth annual “Keep the Heart Red” campaign to promote heart health during February’s American Heart Month.

The initiative, which kicks off Feb. 1, features a large, illuminated red heart displayed outside Stevens Point Fire Station #1, as well as the Plover Fire Dept. on Post Rd.

Each time a cardiac arrest or heart attack is reported to any of the participating departments, a red bulb will be replaced with a black one — a visual reminder of the critical importance of heart health.

“The goal is to keep the heart red by encouraging healthier lifestyles and preventing cardiac events,” said Plover EMS Deputy Chief Anthony Luchini. “We’re providing information to help people make positive changes and reduce their risk.”

Cardiac events are both treatable and often preventable, Luchini added, citing factors like diet, exercise, and heredity as key contributors. Participating agencies will use the campaign to educate the public through videos, community outreach, and hands-on activities such as CPR training.

By the Numbers

The Stevens Point Fire Department has tracked a total of 21 heart-related emergency calls over the past three years, according to Assistant EMS Chief Joe Gemza: nine in 2022, six in 2023, and six in 2024. The “Keep the Heart Red” campaign works to reduce these numbers by raising awareness and promoting preventive measures.

Amherst Fire District Assistant Chief Adam Meshak emphasized the campaign’s focus on empowering individuals. “Heart Health Month is a time to step back and remind ourselves to take care of our own bodies. It’s about raising awareness and equipping people with the skills to respond effectively in emergencies.”

All three agencies have already expanded their outreach, providing hands-only CPR training in their respective coverage areas. The Amherst First District also recently worked with the Town of Amherst to install an automated external defibrillator (AED) at the local town hall, offering basic training sessions as part of the campaign.

“Teaching CPR and making AEDs more accessible are small but impactful steps toward saving lives,” Meshak said. “We want to build a heart-healthy community.”

Community members are encouraged to participate by attending local training sessions or exploring resources like the PulsePoint app, which alerts users to nearby cardiac emergencies and AED locations.