Bravery of officers praised after residents rescued from fire
The bravery of two Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers, together with members of the public, has been praised after they entered a burning building in Willesden to rescue occupants who were inside.
The incident unfolded at around 1.10pm on Friday, December 13, after emergency services were called to reports of a fire in a three-storey building on High Street, NW10.
The MPS said officers were quickly on scene and “immediately recognised the dangerous situation unfolding in front of them” with smoke billowing from windows and reports of people still inside a flat on the first floor.
Two officers, along with members of the public, entered the building and made their way up to the first floor. They directed residents out of the building but were alerted to a man who was trapped in an upstairs flat.
Using a ladder located in a courtyard area at the back of the building, a member of the public managed to break a window and help the man escape.
“Thankfully no-one was seriously injured although three residents and one of the officers, who is aged in his 20s, were taken to hospital for treatment due to the effects of smoke inhalation,” the MPS said. “One officer remains in hospital and all are expected to make a full recovery.”
“The officers are being supported following the ordeal.”
Commander Paul Trevers said: “The actions of these officers exemplifies the qualities that runs through the core of our officers in the Met police – bravery, tenacity and above all a desire to keep the public safe when faced with danger.
“Confronted with a terrifying situation and knowing that people were at risk they did not hesitate in going into that building to protect the lives of others. I am immensely proud of their actions as I’m sure all Londoners will be.
“I would also like to praise the courage of the members of the public who, alongside our officers, helped ensure the safety of those inside the building.”