Blue Watch at Loughton Fire Station receive CFO Commendations

Firefighters from Blue Watch in Loughton were recognised for their life saving actions last night (10 October) at a special presentation held at Loughton Fire Station.

Watch Manager Marc Lemon, Firefighter Andrew Black, Firefighter Michael Tyrrell Price, Firefighter Michael Talbot and Firefighter Steven White were all awarded Chief Fire Officer Commendations from Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Rick Hylton.

Last year, on Wednesday 22 November 2022, they saved a 16-month-old baby’s life after he started having a seizure in the back of his mum’s car.

Watch Manager Marc Lemon recalls the incident: “The mother of 16-month-old Max was driving past the fire station when he started fitting and having a seizure in the back of the car after being picked up from nursery unwell.

“She was shouting for help outside the fire station when the Watch were alerted to her distress and rushed to assist. Max was struggling to breathe and was unresponsive. The crew quickly got him into the station, using oxygen and putting him into the recovery position they tried to clear his airway that seemed to be blocked.”

“An ambulance was called through to the Control Room, and fortunately they were able to get there quickly and assist with helping Max.

“The ambulance crew rushed him on blue light to Whips Cross hospital to be treated.  The crew of the ambulance came back later after handing him over to hospital staff at Whips Cross and praised the Watch.

“They said we probably saved his life with the actions taken as his oxygen levels were extremely low.”

“I am extremely proud of the crews for the actions they took during the incident.”

Max’s father, Rob Draper thanked the crews for their work, he said: “I would like to pass on my thanks and praise to the firefighters at Loughton Station.

"Your firefighters immediately reacted and took control and helped my wife and son. For this I will always be grateful and thankful.”

Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Rick Hylton presented the crews with the awards on the night. He said: “I am very proud to be presenting this award to each and every one of you. You all undertook your duties in a quick, calm and professional manner during a time critical situation. You are a credit to yourself and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.”