Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) mechanic saves heavily pregnant woman during car fire in Eastern Distributor - Darlinghurst
Published: 15 Feb 2024 06:13pm
A Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) fleet mechanic has described how she rushed to the aid of a heavily-pregnant woman, trapped by a car fire today in Sydney’s Eastern Distributor.
Belinda Jackson, a civilian with FRNSW’s fleet division, was driving her service truck through the tunnel when she noticed a couple standing next to their burning car, stationary in the south-bound lanes.
Belinda stopped the truck, assessed the situation, and then repositioned the FRNSW vehicle to protect the pregnant woman and her partner from traffic rushing past.
She then ushered the couple into the cab of her truck to protect them from the heavy black smoke, issuing from the car.
The three waited until traffic was stopped and two Fire and Rescue NSW crews, wearing breathing apparatus, entered the Distributor tunnel to extinguish the car fire.
Belinda then turned her truck around and followed a Police motorcyclist, driving the couple out of the tunnel to safety.
NSW Ambulance paramedics then assessed the mother-to-be, in the late stages of pregnancy and celebrating her birthday today, and her male partner…in good health, despite the stressful experience.
Taken to St Vincents Hospital for treatment for smoke inhalation, Belinda was discharged this afternoon.
“I just did it, really,” the FRNSW mechanic said, “I knew they couldn’t stand there in the smoke, so I just wanted to offer them refuge.
“They (the couple) were very grateful and happy to be out of the toxic smoke.
“I’ve always been somebody to help and I suppose that comes from my scouting background…giving back to the community.”
Belinda’s actions have been heavily praised by senior firefighters, proud that FRNSW’s civilian employees are also ‘Prepared for Anything’ and ready to ‘Protect the Irreplaceable.’
Media note - A FRNSW audio grab of Belinda is available here: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/913207295/a721d9341b [external link]
Updated: 15 Feb 2024 06:18pm
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
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