By Scott Mims

A local company’s generosity will help Thorsby Fire Department update an important piece of lifesaving equipment.

Georgia-Pacific’s Thorsby facility donated $1,500 to the fire department Friday for the purchase of a new cardiac defibrillator.

“With between 200 and 300 employees, we do have incidents when we need emergency help,” said Georgia-Pacific Safety Manager Justin Hayes. “These guys are always willing to help, and we appreciate the help they provide to not only us but also the entire community.”

Thorsby Fire Chief Lee Gunn said the new defibrillator will replace a similar piece of equipment that is about 13 years old.

A cardiac defibrillator is a machine that monitors heart rhythm and administers a controlled electric shock in the case of cardiac arrest. The shock is intended to restore the heartbeat to a normal rhythm.

“We’re obviously in a big budget crunch,” Gunn said. “So, donations like this truly help our department to get vehicles and other needed equipment.”

The donation check was presented to Gunn and other representatives of the department at the company’s facility Friday.

“We just really appreciate this donation,” Gunn said.