Friends-Funded AEDs and Training Help Rangers Respond
By Amy Orzel
Recent emergency responses and national recognition show how equipment, training, and strong partnerships help rangers act quickly in emergencies.
On August 12, Law Enforcement Ranger Logan Bahm responded to an emergency call for a cardiac arrest at a home just outside the Park. Logan arrived first, quickly attached the AED, began CPR, and delivered two shocks before Benzie County EMS arrived, took over patient care, and transported the patient to Munson Medical Center.
We are saddened to share that the individual later passed away; however, Logan’s rapid response, skill, and access to the AED provided immediate care at a critical moment, underscoring the importance of having trained responders and life-saving equipment in the Park.
That same readiness also helped save a life last summer. On Friday, July 11, 2025, park rangers rushed to help a visitor who had a heart attack at the fish weir on the Platte River. Rangers arrived in just three minutes, took over CPR from the visitor’s family, used an AED to deliver two shocks, and performed chest compressions for about 10 minutes. The visitor’s pulse returned, they began breathing on their own, and they were transported to Munson Medical Center, where they made a full recovery.
The rangers’ work to keep people safe is earning well-deserved national recognition. Sleeping Bear Dunes’ Visitor and Resource Protection team received the Director’s Safety and Health Achievement Award, one of the National Park Service’s highest safety honors.
Moments like these show the real impact of support from the Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Friends’ donors helped purchase AEDs and funded emergency medical training for park rangers, turning generosity into life-saving resources.
We appreciate everyone whose support funds essential equipment and training for Visitor and Resource Protection. Your generosity helps protect people in and around the park, supports rangers in urgent moments, and makes Sleeping Bear Dunes safer.
Help fund the training and tools that support emergency response by donating today.
Your financial support helps fund hands-on stewardship, community programs, and conservation efforts across the park. Join our circle of Friends by making a gift today!