OPALCO Recognizes Life-saving Lopezians

— from Suzanne Olson, OPALCO —

Foster Hildreth and Mitchell Barr

On October 3, 2014, more than 50 people gathered at OPALCO’s Lopez Crew Station to celebrate Journeyman Lineman Kevin Zoerb’s return to work and to recognize the community members who helped save his life. On September 20, 2013, Zoerb was injured when he came into contact with a high voltage line.

General Manager Foster Hildreth presented awards to Lopez Fire and EMS, Mitchell Barr and Tim Savage for their life saving efforts and outstanding service to community. Chief Jim Ghiglione recognized his team of volunteers from Lopez Fire and EMS – many of whom were in attendance, including fire cadets from the high school program. Emotions were high as Ghiglione recounted the horror and miracle of that emergency call – the perfect storm of successful cell phone reception for the 911 call and quick radio contact to the EMS team in an area notorious for poor communication. He gave special thanks to Paramedic Marty Clark and EMT Terry Marshall, who were first responders that day.

Hildreth commended Mitchell Barr, an equipment operator for Lopez Sand & Gravel, who made the call to 911 to get help on its way and freed up our Journeyman Lineman Tim Savage to begin CPR, and Savage for his skillful and swift action.

“Safety is OPALCO’s top concern,” said Hildreth.  “I appreciate the job our linemen do at all hours and in all weather. I have the utmost respect for our crews and their dedication to keeping the lights on. A large effort is underway to improve our safety program and field communications for our first responders and, by extension, for our whole community.”