Last Updated on January 28, 2026 5:16 pm
At approximately 12:30 Wednesday afternoon, January 28th, Watauga County Communications received a 911 call for an individual experiencing a severe health crisis at Watauga County Recreation Center.
Thanks to the quick action of trained staff and knowledgeable bystanders, and the availability of a pre-positioned, county-maintained Automated External Defibrillator (AED), the patient was able to be fully resuscitated and transported safely for further evaluation.
“AEDs save lives every day, and we appreciate the dedicated staff and patrons who helped make this the positive outcome that it is,” said officials with Watauga County Emergency Services.
Responding units included Watauga County Communications, the Watauga County EMS Division, and Boone Fire, as well as the staff of the Watauga County Recreation Center, and those who prioritized the placement of AEDs at county facilities.
“Thank you as well to the public who jumped in to help. We cannot stress enough the importance and value of learning CPR”, Watauga County Emergency Services also stated.
If you are interested in learning this vital skill, please reach out to 828-264-4235.
