[Southsider2k12]

http://heraldargus.com/articles/2012/01/07...88251751593.txt

Firefighters honored for rescuing woman from blaze

By Tim Moran
Staff writer
Published: Saturday, January 7, 2012 5:06 PM CST
Michigan City Firefighters Jeffery Bruder and Andrew Belue were honored at a recent Fire Merit Commission meeting for their efforts in saving a life during an October fire at Long Beach Cove Apartments.

The two were each awarded a Letter of Commodation for their "heroic actions" in the early morning hours of Oct. 21, 2011, minutes after a fire alarm rang at the apartment complex.

"If not for the firefighters, the occupant may have suffered greater injury or the possibility of death," the letter stated.

According to Public Information Officer Mark Baker, Bruder, Belue and their support team, which consisted of then-Lt. Judd Rose and Driver/Operator Dave Nespo, arrived at the complex at 4:31 a.m. to find smoke pouring out of an apartment.

After forcing their way into the residence, Baker said Bruder and Belue searched dilligently, and eventually found a woman alseep on the couch.

"The firefighters went well beyond what they would have normally done," Baker said. "We usually do not find people still asleep after the alarm has been ringing so this was a bit unusual."

Baker stressed the help of Rose and Nespo, who he said also played an instrumental role in making sure the victim survived with no injuries and only slight smoke inhalation.

"This could have potentially been really bad, but their quick work got her right away," Baker said.