Hero Cops Bravely Rescue Woman From Burning Home
On the evening of Tuesday, 29 October 2019, Thames Valley police officers PC Ben Eastment and PC Derek Ingram sprang into action after hearing a call about a house fire in Burnham. Reports said people might still be trapped inside.
Fearless Rescue Amid Thick Smoke and Flames
The two officers were just around the corner and decided to self-deploy. When they arrived, the front door was wide open and smoke billowed from the upstairs windows. Without hesitation, they charged inside.
The fire was coming from a locked bedroom. While searching the first floor, they found an unconscious woman in another room. Her teenage son told the officers, “the children are next door.”
Suspecting children might be trapped, PC Ingram forced open the locked bedroom. Inside, a mattress was ablaze, but thankfully the room was empty. PC Eastment dashed to fetch a fire extinguisher. By the time he returned, the smoke had thickened and the flames had grown fiercer.
Despite poor visibility, Eastment grabbed Ingram’s legs to keep him steady. Meanwhile, Ingram carried the unconscious woman down the stairs to safety. They ensured the teenager was safe too and confirmed no one else was inside the blazing house.
Aftermath: Smoke Inhalation and Heroic Praise
Both officers suffered smoke inhalation and underwent oxygen therapy for an hour afterwards. They placed the woman in the recovery position and monitored her breathing until the fire brigade arrived to take over first aid.
PC Ingram said: “We were the first on the scene, before the fire brigade. Neighbours said there were still people inside, maybe children. We’re both family men, so something clicked, and we just did what had to be done.”
“I’m looking forward to the Awards – it’s nice to be recognised. The police have been seen in a bad light recently, but that’s not a fair reflection of most officers.”
PC Eastment added: “I feel extremely honoured to be nominated. We didn’t hesitate to run into that burning house. We were just doing our job.”
Bravery Recognised with Top Commendations
Thames Valley Police Federation Chair Craig O’Leary praised their fearless actions:
“Ben and Derek saved that woman’s life by risking their own. They made sure no one else was hurt, going above and beyond the call of duty. We’re relieved they weren’t seriously injured and commend their quick thinking and courage.”
Both officers have received the Chief Constable’s Higher Commendation for their bravery. They will attend the Thames Valley Police Federation Bravery Awards on 28 April 2022, where an overall winner will be announced.
