Muskoka’s Lucas Leggett receives Ontario Award for Paramedic Bravery
Leggett ran into burning home to rescue family in October, 2019
A Muskoka paramedic is among those honoured with the Ontario Award for Paramedic Bravery.
Paramedic Lucas Leggett with the Muskoka Paramedic Services was recognized during a virtual ceremony on Thursday, by the provincial government, one of 13 first responders so honoured. He was among those who would have received their awards in 2019 if not for the pandemic.
Leggett received the award following actions taken on October 25, 2019; he and his partner, along with OPP officers, responded to reports of a house fire. He arrived to find a house surrounded by thick smoke, with a woman holding two young children at a second-storey window. Paramedic Leggett and his team jumped into action. After determining no other method of entry, an officer busted down the front door and Leggett ran in through the heavy smoke. The two children were saved through his actions.
The local fire service arrived shortly after and assisted the mother, Leggett, and the officer out of the burning home. Even the family pets were saved.
“These paramedics put patients first and demonstrated fearless dedication to saving lives,” said Peter Dundas, President of the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs. “They exemplify the virtues of this award and what it means to be a paramedic stepping up to serve their community every day. Congratulations to all.”
“Paramedics are on the frontlines when it comes to protecting our communities and saving lives. Throughout the pandemic, we have seen paramedics performing incredible acts of service and generosity,” said Premier Doug Ford of this year’s recipients. “From assisting with the vaccine rollout to alleviating hospital capacity by helping with home care, they have been here to support us every step of the way. On behalf of everyone in Ontario, I want to thank each of them for their service and congratulate this year’s winners of the Paramedic Bravery Awards. You are true heroes.”
Feature image courtesy Muskoka Paramedics Services via Twitter.
