A medical emergency experienced by long-time Dickson City Attorney Jerry Smith in October prompted city officials to take action to improve public safety. Smith survived a serious cardiac event at the U.S. Courthouse in Nashville thanks to the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), inspiring Dickson leaders to ensure similar resources are available locally.
Mayor Don L. Weiss Jr. and City Administrator David Travis asked Police Chief Seth Lyles and Fire Chief Richard Greer to explore acquiring AEDs for city facilities. Assistant Police Chief Todd Christian worked with Tristar Horizon Medical Center to purchase the devices, with Horizon covering half the cost of 16 AEDs. By November 14, the life-saving devices were installed across all city locations, including police and fire stations, city hall, public works, parks and recreation facilities, the senior activity center, and the War Memorial Building.
Smith expressed gratitude for the community’s support and credited the quick access to an AED as key to his survival. “Had I been anywhere else, as I retraced my steps, I wouldn’t be here tonight,” he said.
Tristar Horizon Medical Center will continue its partnership with the city by offering AED training to all city employees, ensuring they feel confident and prepared to use the devices if needed. Mayor Weiss praised the collaboration, noting the effort provides a significant safety benefit to residents and employees across Dickson.
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