Factory worker honoured for saving couple from flat blaze
His quick-thinking actions potentially saved a couple following the outbreak of a fire in a block of flats.
Vincent Baker rushed to the rescue of the pair on a first floor apartment on hearing cries for help.
He bravely rescued one occupier, before guiding the second occupant safely out of the flat.
The blaze at the apartments in Targate Court, Armitage was in December.
Now Mr Baker has received a certificate of commendation from Staffordshire Fire Service.
The fire service said the fire had blocked the occupiers' means of escape.
The residents were alerted by a crackling noise in the fuse box, next to the front door, but were unable to leave the flat as their escape was blocked by the fire.
They shouted out of the window, which alerted workers in a factory across the road, and the men went to the flat to extinguish the fire before fire crews from Rugeley and Cannock arrived at the scene.
Mr Baker, who was one of the men who worked at the factory, made his way past the fire in the communal hallway and up the smoke-filled staircase.
He was honoured for his bravery during an event at Rugeley Community Fire Station on Monday.
Watch Manager Ian Moss said: "Mr Baker risked his own life to rescue, and potentially save the lives of, two other people from a very dangerous situation."
Vincent Baker said: "It's an absolute honour to be presented with this award.
"I'm really pleased that I was able to help the couple to safety and that no one was hurt in the fire."
Crews ventilated the property and administered Oxygen Therapy to the occupants who were later transported to Queen's Hospital in Burton.
Fire crews left the scene at 4.31am
Speaking at the time, fire station manager Paul Cullen, who attended the incident, said: "The residents of this property had a very lucky escape.
"This incident goes to show just how important it is to have working smoke alarms fitted.
"If the occupants had been asleep and had not heard the crackling of the fire, the situation could have been far more severe.
"I would urge everyone to ensure they have working smoke alarms fitted and to test them regularly.
"There is no doubt they could save your life, and your family's life, in the event of an emergency."
