Chattanooga Firefighter Plays Heroic Role as Midwife in Interstate Birth of Baby Girl

A Chattanooga firefighter played a crucial role in assisting the birth of a baby girl on the side of Interstate 75 early last Thursday. The parents of the newborn, named Emma Lucille, were unable to reach the hospital in time, prompting the emergency situation.

After the birth, the family met Lieutenant Alexander Efiom and his crew from Engine 8 at a gas station located on Gunbarrel Road. Lt. Efiom utilized skills he had learned earlier in his shift while attending an obstetrics (OB) class focused on assisting with newborn deliveries, taught by Erlanger Women’s Services.

Upon arrival, Lt. Efiom checked the newborn’s vital signs and ensured that her airway was clear while waiting for Hamilton County EMS to take over. As a father of daughters himself, Lt. Efiom expressed joy at being part of such an important moment for the family. Both the mother and baby were subsequently taken to the hospital and are reported to be in good health.

The family expressed their gratitude to Lt. Efiom and the Chattanooga Fire Department for their assistance during this unexpected incident. The fire department has long valued its partnership with Erlanger Hospital, which has been instrumental in enhancing their training programs for cadets, particularly in obstetrics.

The family also provided permission for the Chattanooga Fire Department to share photos of the delivery event, further celebrating the unique experience with the wider community. The department extended their best wishes to baby Emma Lucille as she embarks on her journey in life.

Another Critical Birth Incident

In a separate but related incident on the same day, another newborn girl named Amelia required CPR after experiencing a critical situation during her home birth. The midwife at Amelia’s delivery called 911 when the infant was found not breathing. Crews from the Chattanooga Fire Department, stationed at Station 21, arrived promptly to administer CPR.

Thanks to the quick response, Amelia’s pulse was restored before she was transported to a nearby hospital, where she currently remains in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) receiving medical care. The fire department recognized the efforts of Captain Joey Smith and Senior Firefighters Adam Waldrop, Pat O’Brien, and Dishaun Broughton for their critical roles in the emergency response.

As of the last update, Amelia was receiving comprehensive care in the NICU, illustrating the importance of quick and effective emergency services in life-threatening situations.

Conclusion

Both incidents highlight the vital role of the Chattanooga Fire Department in emergency situations, especially involving childbirth. Their ongoing partnership with healthcare professionals and training programs demonstrates a commitment to community well-being. The coordination between emergency responders and medical services proved crucial to the successful handling of both cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened during the birth on Interstate 75?

A Chattanooga firefighter assisted in the birth of a baby girl named Emma Lucille when her parents could not reach the hospital in time.

Who assisted in the birth of baby Emma?

Lieutenant Alexander Efiom of Engine 8, who had recently attended an OB class, helped ensure the baby was healthy.

What happened to the mother and baby after the delivery?

Both the mother and baby were taken to the hospital and are reported to be doing well.

What was the other incident involving a newborn on the same day?

Another baby girl named Amelia required CPR after being found not breathing during a home birth; she is currently receiving care in the NICU.

How did the Chattanooga Fire Department respond to the incidents?

The department provided immediate assistance, demonstrating their training and preparedness for emergency situations involving childbirth.