Firefighter Stephen Ladley snatched a woman from the brink of disaster during an e-bike blaze in Catford last year. His quick thinking and guts earned him the prestigious Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation.
Peril on the Roof
On arriving, Ladley spotted a casualty down below and a terrified woman clutching the roof’s edge two storeys up. Smoke was thick and choking. He immediately called for a 9m ladder and kept the woman calm, but she was losing her grip fast.
As Ladley scrambled up the ladder, the woman slipped on the slate tiles and nearly fell off the roof. Without hesitation, Ladley grabbed her with one hand, balancing precariously on a now-unsafe ladder angled dangerously.
Teamwork in the Face of Fire
Thanks to firefighters and Metropolitan Police below stabilising the ladder, Ladley held on until an extension ladder was brought. He slid the woman to safety where paramedics took over.
He then turned to assist the casualty down the road, helping London Ambulance Service and HEMS treat him.
Ladley’s Lucky Day
“She was so lucky, it was my lucky day too, we are both so lucky to survive!” said Ladley.
“I’m amazed I stayed so calm with her hanging off my arm while smoke and flames poured out the bathroom window nearby. My hand hurt holding on, but I wouldn’t let go.”
Deputy Commissioner Spencer Sutcliff presented Ladley’s Commendation at a ceremony attended by the grateful woman he saved.
