Cherokee County
Fire & Emergency Services
Fire & Emergency Services
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services is proud to recognize Mrs. Jennifer Watkins, a courageous citizen of Cherokee County and wife of Fire Sergeant Brandon Watkins, with the prestigious Fire Chief's Civilian Lifesaver Award.
On a routine day, Mrs. Watkins found herself in a life-or-death situation. While shopping at a retail store, she witnessed a 75-year-old man collapse. Without a moment's hesitation, Mrs. Watkins rushed to his side and discovered he was unresponsive — pulseless and not breathing. In that critical moment, Mrs. Watkins performed CPR, demonstrating quick thinking and unwavering determination. As she worked tirelessly to save his life, she directed employees to retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Unfortunately, the store did not have an AED on-site.
Undeterred by the absence of this critical piece of life-saving equipment, Mrs. Watkins continued CPR, ensuring that the victim had the best chance of survival. Her perseverance paid off when the man regained a pulse and began to breathe on his own.
When Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services arrived at the scene, the patient was alive, thanks to Mrs. Watkins' heroic actions and quick decision-making.
Mrs. Watkins' commitment didn’t stop there. After the incident, she took the initiative to follow up with the store regarding the lack of an AED. As a result of her advocacy, the company now has AEDs available on-site throughout its stores, ensuring that future emergencies will be handled more safely and effectively.
In a powerful demonstration of how one person's actions can change the course of an entire situation, Mrs. Watkins not only saved a life but also made a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of the community.
We are incredibly proud to honor Mrs. Jennifer Watkins for her selflessness, courage, and commitment to her community. She embodies the true spirit of a lifesaver, and today, we celebrate her as a hero.
Thank you, Mrs. Watkins, for your dedication to the safety and well-being of those around you.