CA Firefighter who Suffered Heart Attack at Call Recovering

A California firefighter who suffered a heart attack during a call last week is recovering, according to his department.

Fairfield firefighter/paramedic Ryan Hughes was working on the overhaul phase of a structure fire June 17 when he went into cardiac arrest, according to the department. Firefighters and paramedics at the scene immediately began performing CPR, and he was taken to the hospital.

ER doctors and staff were able to resuscitate Hughes, and he was admitted to the intensive care unit. Hughes, 33, regained consciousness a few days later.

"He is awake, alert, and able to verbally communicate with his loved ones, friends, family, and hospital staff," the department stated in an online update.

Hughes' outlook for recovery is "exceptionally favorable," although he has a long way to go, the department added.

"The quick actions of his friends and medical staff made this Father’s Day even more special for Ryan and his family," the department stated.