07/08/2026
Clear Lake Fire Department and the City of Clear Lake, Iowa Recognizes Paramedic Jim Hillyer for Improving Community Safety
The Clear Lake Fire Department would like to recognize and thank Paramedic Jim Hillyer for his outstanding commitment to the safety and well-being of our community.
Recently, Jim completed CPR training for more than 50 City of Clear Lake employees, helping ensure that city staff are better prepared to respond during a medical emergency. His efforts have provided valuable lifesaving skills that can make a critical difference when every second counts.
Jim's commitment did not stop with training. He worked with Cerro Gordo Public Health to secure cost-sharing assistance that allowed the City of Clear Lake to obtain three new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). These lifesaving devices have been installed at City Hall, the Public Works Building, and the Clear Lake Public Library, expanding access to emergency cardiac care throughout the community.
In addition, Jim coordinated the installation of a publicly accessible AED at the City Park Bandshell. This device will be available for anyone to use in the event of a cardiac emergency during community events, concerts, or while enjoying the park.
These improvements are a direct result of Jim's initiative, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond his daily responsibilities. His work has strengthened our community's emergency preparedness and has the potential to save lives for years to come.
On behalf of the Clear Lake Fire Department and the City of Clear Lake, thank you, Jim, for your professionalism, leadership, and the extra effort you put into making our community a safer place.
Seconds save lives. ⏱️ That is why three new public AEDs are officially live at Clear Lake City Hall, the Clear Lake Shop, and the Clear Lake City Library. 🚨
If someone suffers cardiac arrest, waiting for an ambulance to arrive can take 7 to 8 minutes. But getting an AED on the scene within 3 to 5 minutes can push survival rates up to 70 percent. ❤️ Putting these units right where people gather means anyone can step up and help before paramedics arrive.
This project was made possible by pooling our local team resources with a regional preparedness grant from the Service Area 2 Healthcare Coalition, a great partnership that brings life-saving gear right to our neighborhood. 🤝
Shoutout to the 50 plus city employees who completed their training this spring to kick off this project! 🙌 Public training sessions are coming up next, so stay tuned to find out how you can learn to save a life.
