Firefighter of the Year worked to bring new program to life

On a recent call, Longboat Key firefighter/paramedic David Kyle saw the File of Life magnet on the patient’s refrigerator door. The magnet stated that the man, who was found unresponsive by a neighbor, is diabetic, so firefighter/paramedics gave him sugar. The man was transported to a hospital and released with no complications.

Kyle says that the File of Life magnets, which are placed on refrigerator doors and provide firefighter/paramedics with critical patient information, including allergies, past medical history and a list of medications the patient is taking, are key to providing top-notch care.

“It speeds up the care that can be given to people,” Kyle said.

Kyle discovered the File of Life magnets last spring, while preparing for the Longboat Key Fire Rescue Open House and took on the project of overseeing the distribution of 10,000 magnets Key-wide. So far, 3,000 magnets have been distributed. The program is just one example of Kyle’s dedication, according to Longboat Key Fire Rescue Chief Rich Dickerson, who nominated Kyle for 2009 Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key Firefighter of the Year.

Kyle joined Titusville Fire and Emergency Services eight years ago, and in 2004 he joined Longboat Key Fire Rescue. In the six years since joining the Longboat department, Kyle has continued to seek educational opportunities and professional development. Recently, he became certified as a U.S. Coast Guard boat captain, which allows him to operate the department’s boat. Kyle also mentors new firefighter/paramedics as a paramedic preceptor.

“His commitment to our department and the citizens of Longboat Key is evidenced on his every call,” said Dickerson in a prepared statement.

“I really enjoy working with the people of Longboat,” Kyle said. “It’s a great place to work.”

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Bio

David Kyle
Occupation: Firefighter/paramedic
Age: 32
Family: Married with two daughters and one son
Hometown: Medford, N.J.
Residence: Lakewood Ranch
Hobbies: Golf, paintball and mountain biking
Interesting fact: Kyle earned his pilot’s license in 1996 but hasn’t used it since then.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].