They were among 44 firefighters recognised by Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) as it marked St Florian’s Day – the International Day of Firefighters (May 4).
On 15 May 2020, crews from Merrylands – including Senior Firefighters Deryck Salfus and Stephen Francis, and firefighters Elias Taouk and Joshua Crump – and Yennora Stations were attending an automatic fire alarm in Merrylands when they came across a collapsed male.
They commenced CPR and utilised the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to deliver six shocks to the man – potentially saving this life. They also attended to his wife and son while continuing to support NSW Ambulance paramedics with compressions and moving the patient into the ambulance.
FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter praised all firefighters across the state, acknowledging the challenges faced by firefighters over the last few years.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the firefighters who were honoured have all put the community ahead of themselves.
“The common thread amongst all firefighters being recognised is their selflessness and community-mindedness, and on behalf of communities across NSW, I say thank you,” Ms Cooke said.
Firefighters awarded Commissioner’s Award after saving man who collapsed
FOUR firefighters from Merrylands Fire Station who potentially saved the life of the man two years ago have been presented with the Commissioner’s Resuscitation Award.