Honour for life-saving actions

By timesecholife on in All News, Latest News

A member of the public has been presented with the Staffordshire Fire & Rescue’s Chief Fire Officer’s (CFO) Commendation award after helping to save a man’s life last year. Debbie Swinson, aged 56, from Cheadle, was on shift at the petrol station in Brookhouses, Cheadle on July 27, 2021 when a man caught fire.

A member of the public has been presented with the Staffordshire Fire & Rescue’s Chief Fire Officer’s (CFO) Commendation award after helping to save a man’s life last year.

Debbie Swinson, aged 56, from Cheadle, was on shift at the petrol station in Brookhouses, Cheadle on July 27, 2021 when a man caught fire.

A spokesman for Staffordshire Fire & Rescue further explained: “The man, who was handling a fuel pump, sustained significant burns after the flammable liquid was ignited.

“Debbie, who witnessed the incident, immediately isolated the fuel supply to the pump and rushed to the man’s aid.

“Luckily, Debbie used a fire extinguisher and was able to extinguish the blaze before firefighters arrived.

“The man suffered 30 percent burns to his head, shoulders and upper chest.

“He was transported by air ambulance to a special burns unit at hospital, where he received treatment for his injuries.”

Crew Manager Simon Filson, who attended the incident, said: “I would like to commend Debbie on her excellent quick-thinking during this traumatic incident, which ultimately saved a life.

“As a member of the public, there is nothing that can prepare you for such an event.

“The bravery she showed to rush to the man’s aid and de-escalate the situation is something which has been rightfully recognised by the service.”

Debbie was presented with the CFO’s Commendation at Cheadle Community Fire Station last Tuesday (June 7).

Afterwards, friends and family were given a tour of a fire engine by CFO Barber and Cheadle crews, along with servings of tea and cake.

Crew Manager Filson added: “It was fantastic to see Debbie’s family and friends turn up to show their appreciation for her valiant efforts.

“The incident was incredibly traumatic for those who witnessed it and, if not for Debbie’s quick-thinking, could have resulted in a fatality.”

The spokesman for Staffordshire Fire & Rescue added: “Sadly, the man involved in this incident has since passed away, not related to this incident.”

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