A rapid response from Escambia County Firefighter Charles Bailey saved the life of a victim trapped inside a home on Sunday, July 19. Escambia County Fire Rescue and EMS responded to a residential structure fire in the 3900 block of W. Mallory St. Upon arrival, Firefighter Charles Bailey, driver of E17, rescued one adult from the window of a home after 1 minute and 40 seconds. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for injuries.
“It’s not an ideal situation for the driver of the first due apparatus to have to make a rescue, but life safety is primary, and, in this instance, it was the right action for him to take and I support it,” ECFR Lt. Bryan Rickles said. “He acted without hesitation and did it quickly. He went back to finish his duties as a driver and was a major part in the success of this situation.”
Escambia County Emergency Communications received calls around 11:41 p.m. reporting a residential structure fire with a possibility of entrapment. The first crew arrived to find a chaotic scene with smoke showing from a single-story wood frame private dwelling. Firefighter Charles Bailey immediately located the victim hanging outside of a window. Bailey was able to rescue the patient by standing on an outside AC unit and pulling her to safety. The incident was brought under control at 11:56 p.m.
“This is an outstanding display of situational awareness, confidence, training, and actions leading to the saving of a life,” said Paul Williams, Escambia County Interim Fire Chief. “This was one of those times that required immediate action, and firefighter Bailey’s response was the right decision for the situation in which he encountered.”
Assistance was also provided by the Pensacola Fire Department E4, DOD Fire L34, Gulf Power, and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
"The crew of engine 17 made an amazing rescue and credit Firefighter Bailey for his quick actions and ability to save a young life, we are so very fortunate to have the dedicated men and women who serve this community," Public Safety Director Jason Rogers. "Lives are saved because of their commitment to Escambia County."
Fire officials found no evidence of a working smoke detector. If you do not have a smoke detector in your home and need assistance, both the county and the city have programs to help. For more information, contact Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376).
The incident is under investigation by the Florida State Fire Marshall.
A rapid response from Escambia County Firefighter Charles Bailey saved the life of a victim trapped inside a home on Sunday, July 19.