A neighbour who rescued an elderly woman and a pet dog from a burning house at Lake Haven has been recognised by Fire and Rescue NSW for bravery.
On Wednesday, August 3, 2020, an elderly couple’s life was shattered when an electrical fault set fire to the loungeroom and quickly spread, engulfing their Glading Cl home.
The residence was completely destroyed and the couple lost all their possessions despite the efforts of the neighbours and then about 30 firefighters trying to extinguish the flames.
Daniel Beck, the neighbour who first came to the rescue, was the only citizen among the 120 firefighters who were formally recognised by Fire and Rescue (FRNSW) on St Florian’s Day, May 4.
St Florian’s Day is named after the Patron Saint of firefighters and is traditionally the day FRNSW formally recognises those who’ve played a special role in protecting our communities.
“I’d just driven into the street and noticed a bit of smoke coming from the house and when I went over Keith (the owner) was running down the side of the house,” Beck said.
“He was all singed and I think he was in a bit of shock because he didn’t say anything to me; so I ran over to other neighbours to help get some hoses set up.
“Then I heard Keith’s wife screaming out – she was still inside – so I just kicked over the rose bushes in front of the window, smashed the window and went in and grabbed her out of the room.”
“I’m just glad I was at the right place at the right time.”
After the fire Beck and some of his mates helped clear out the burnt debris and clean up the site and now Keith and his wife Gina are living in a caravan out the front while they rebuild.
Beck said he appreciated the St Florian’s Day Award and was very excited to go the awards, especially because he was the only public citizen among the 120 firefighters receiving recognition.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the firefighters receiving awards had each put others’ lives before their own.
“The bravery, hard work and professionalism of our firefighters is extraordinary and whilst they don’t do it for the praise, they certainly deserve it and it’s great to see them receive that recognition on this special day,” Dib said.
FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter congratulated all who have were recognised.
“When you hear about the incidents for which our people are being recognised, you get an appreciation for the difficult and traumatic situations they may have to confront on any given day,” Commissioner Baxter said.
Sue Murray