Two Fanshawe alumni have been honoured for their bravery in rescuing three women from a burning bungalow on Feb 1.
Yuvi Saini, 23, and Avi Verma, 28, say they were outside when they saw the blaze ravage through the house around 3:00 a.m. at 1281 Hillcrest Avenue.
“I looked up from tying my shoes and saw the fire on the right side of the house,” says Verma.
Running over to the scene, Saini and Verma noticed three women stuck in the basement with no way to escape.
“In those situations, you don’t have time to think.”
As one kicked in the window, the other pulled the women out to safety. Fire crews arrived at the scene shortly after all 15 tenants were removed from the crowded home.
“In those stressful situations, I’m just happy everything worked out,” said Saini.
On Feb. 11, Saini and Verma were recognized as local heroes for their “quick thinking, actions, and life saving efforts” at the London Fire Department Memorial Headquarters.
(Left to right) Platoon Chief Gary Mosburger, Avi Verma, Yuvi Saini, Deputy Fire Chief Richard Hayes. [AMY SIMON / XFM NEWS]
“Without hesitation, they took it upon themselves to help,” read the opening statement by London Deputy Fire Chief Richard Hayes. “Since January of this year, there have been 20 fire- related deaths in the province of Ontario. But the actions of these two gentlemen have prevented the deaths of three more.”
“On behalf of Mayor Holder and London City Council, we thank you for your heroism and bravery,” added Deputy Mayor Josh Morgan.
Upon recognition from the City of London, Saini and Verma were also both awarded the London Professional Fire Fighters Association Challenge Coin.
“It represents over 103 years of firefighters protecting this community which you did that day,” says Jason Tilmlick, President of the London Professional Fire Fighters Association. “We get into this profession to help those in our community. You did that selflessly, courageously, and we can’t thank you enough for that.”
Saini and Verma both came to Canada from India around four years ago to attend Fanshawe College. Saini, who graduated from Fanshawe’s Police Foundations program in 2019, says this incident has further influenced his aspirations of one day becoming a police officer.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Knowing now that I can handle the rush and severity of those situations makes me glad that I can help.”
“Whoever thought that a couple of international students would be recognized for something of this level,” he added.
We are so #FalconProud of these @fanshawealumni! https://t.co/uoOWkBNsA5
— fanshawecollege (@FanshaweCollege) February 11, 2022
