Police officers in Tampa, Florida, rescued an elderly man in need of help on Saturday.
According to Tampa Police, the incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m. when officers responded to a home on E. Chico Street and found the building filled with smoke. Said in a press release Friday.
Wallace Carter, 81, who lives in the house, was trapped inside because security bars were installed on the doors and windows.
Officers on the scene acted quickly to save the man’s life.
“Officer Travis Wilson recognized the situation as critical and immediately determined that specialized entry tools, such as halogens and rams, were required to enter and save the residents,” the agency’s news release said. said. Officers arrived and forced entry into the residence. ”
Video footage captures tense moments during rescue show Police officers rush to the scene with sirens blaring. As they approached the front door, one of them said of the residence, “Oh, it’s full of smoke.”
Officers used tools to enter the residence, then turned themselves in and began searching for Carter inside the smoke-filled home.
As soon as I started searching, I found him lying on the floor near a table. He didn’t seem to be moving at the time. Officers quickly gathered him and took him outside to a safe location.
Police officers in Tampa, Florida, rescued an elderly man trapped inside a smoke-filled home on Saturday (Tampa Police Department).
“We’ve got you, buddy,” one of the officers said to the old man lying on the grass. “It’s okay, buddy,” the officer said again, asking if he was comfortable tending to him.
When Tampa Fire Rescue personnel arrived at the scene, they were able to extinguish the fire, which started in the man’s stove, authorities said. They noted that Mr. Carter was taken to a hospital for treatment and was eventually released.
“The swift and decisive actions of our officers are truly commendable. Their courage and commitment to public safety is a shining example of the dedicated service of all members of the Tampa Police Department,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Varcoe said after the rescue. This is an example.”
Social media users also lavished praise on the officers for their actions. write, “Good job TPD!!!!!” Thankfully, neighbors called right away and helped him get out of there. ”
“Heroes!!!!!” another user Said.
