Preston, January 10, 2023 – In a daring act of bravery, Sergeant Steve Quilliam and Custody Detention Officer (CDO) Lisa Margerison have been nominated for the prestigious National Police Bravery Awards 2024. Their remarkable courage and quick thinking undoubtedly saved the life of an inmate trapped in a flame and smoke-filled detention cell.
The harrowing incident unfolded in the early hours of January 10, 2023, at the Preston Custody Office, where Sgt. Quilliam and CDO Margerison were on duty. When a fire alarm sounded, the duo sprang into action, despite the alarm failing to specify the location of the fire.
With Sgt. Quilliam scanning CCTV monitors, swiftly identified smoke emanating from one of the detention centre’s corridors. Racing to the scene, they located the smoke-filled cell. Despite the lack of protective equipment or firefighting gear, they made the split-second decision to enter the cell, with Sgt. Quilliam opened the door into a dense cloud of thick black smoke.
Amidst flames reaching the ceiling, the officers attempted to locate the detainee. Despite the overwhelming conditions, they made multiple courageous attempts to enter the cell, eventually finding the detainee curled up in a ball at the rear.
Together, they dragged the detainee to safety, risking their own lives without hesitation. Despite suffering from smoke inhalation, they persevered until other officers arrived with appropriate equipment to tackle the fire.
Fortunately, neither officer sustained serious injuries, and they returned to duty later that shift. The rescued detainee was promptly taken to the hospital for evaluation.
Chair of Lancashire Police Federation, Zeg Awan, commended the duo for their selflessness and courage, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their exemplary actions amidst intense scrutiny faced by law enforcement.
Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett of Lancashire Police expressed immense pride in Sgt. Quilliam and CDO Margerison, acknowledging their outstanding heroism and the significant impact of their quick-thinking actions in averting a potentially catastrophic outcome.
The nomination of Sgt. Quilliam and CDO Margerison for the National Police Bravery Awards 2024 highlight their exceptional courage and commitment to preserving life, reflecting the highest ideals of law enforcement.
The nation awaits the announcement of the awards, recognizing and celebrating the remarkable bravery of officers like Sgt. Quilliam and CDO Margerison, whose unwavering dedication to duty serves as an inspiration to all.
