Colchester firefighter receives Chief Fire Officer Commendation
A Colchester Firefighter has received an award after his quick thinking saved a woman's life.
Chris Allan, a firefighter at Colchester Fire Station's Green Watch, was presented with a Chief Fire Officer Commendation on Tuesday 20 July.
Chris, 37, was joined by his Green Watch colleagues, Watch Manager Darren Holliday, Station Manager Dan Partridge and partner Michelle and their two children, Leo and Freya.
The award was presented to Chris for his actions in November 2020, after he helped to save a woman's life.
Speaking about the incident, Watch Manager Darren Holliday said: "The ambulance service had asked for assistance from our crews to help gain entry to a property in Colchester. On arrival at the incident the only way in was through a skylight window in the roof, so we used ladders and Chris entered through the window to reach the casualty.
"Chris immediately put the woman into the recovery position before going to the front door to let the ambulance crew into the property. There's no doubt, if he'd walked straight past her to let the ambulance crew in first, which would have taken up vital minutes, it could have been a totally different outcome."
Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Jo Turton said: “Firefighter Chris Allan was nominated for his quick-thinking actions and presence of mind – which most importantly, saved this woman’s life. It is quite clear that in doing what he did, Chris displayed bravery and professionalism. He went forward to help - displaying the true values of the fire and rescue service.
“Well done, Chris, your actions that day are highly commendable.”
Firefighter Chris Allan said: "I am truly honoured to receive the CFO commendation; I really didn't expect it. I could not have done what I did without my colleagues on Green Watch, it was a real team effort, so I would like to thank them all for their support and the part they played that day.
Page last updated 23 July, 2021