The Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department is seeking community support to purchase automatic external defibrillators.

Heart attack is one of the leading causes of death in this country. Studies have shown that early access to defibrillation gives the best chance of surviving a sudden onset heart attack, according to a Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department press release.

With quick access to automatic external defibrillators and trained people to give aid, a patient is more likely to survive until emergency medical assistance is available.

The Reedsport Fire Department, in conjunction with the Reedsport Police Department and Lower Umpqua emergency services, is asking for public support for its defibrillator program.

The department is collecting donations to purchase defibrillators to place in the local elementary and high schools and the Lower Umpqua Senior Center.

Each unit costs approximately $1,800, including a storage case.

For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation, those interested can contact the Reedsport Fire Department at 271-2423, or by U.S. mail at 124 N. Fourth St., Reedsport, OR, 97467.