Wakefield Green Watch Commended for Life-Saving Actions

In an extraordinary display of skill and dedication, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Wakefield Green Watch, led by Crew Manager Craig Pickles, has been commended for their life-saving actions.

The emergency unfolded when a man collapsed at home. Mr Whittaker’s condition led to a series of health complications, leaving him unconscious on the floor of his home for 7-days. A friend, unable to reach him and deeply concerned for his welfare, alerted the emergency service. The urgency of the situation required the involvement of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to gain entry into the property.

Recounting the harrowing experience, Mr. Whittaker expressed his profound gratitude for the swift and compassionate response by Wakefield Green Watch. He recalls, “I was roused and confused by some banging at my door, followed by the unmistakable sight of a firefighter, who I believe was Crew Manager Pickles, peering around the hallway door with a smile and saying, ‘Hello Buddy, do you need some help there?’”

Crew Manager Pickles, along with the Wakefield Green Watch crew, not only facilitated the initial medical assessment, but also provided crucial emotional support. Their calming presence and reassuring words were pivotal in easing Mr. Whittaker's distress during this critical time. “For reasons I can't explain, this contact with Crew Manager Pickles had an almost immediate calming effect,” he noted.

Commenting on the incident, Crew Manager Craig Pickles said, "On arrival to the property, you never know what you're going to come across, so we gained entry quickly. I saw Mr. Whittaker on the floor and gave help and reassurance."

Following the entry, Green Watch, in conjunction with a solo responder paramedic from Yorkshire Ambulance Service, provided immediate care. The team’s quick and efficient coordination ensured Mr. Whittaker received the necessary medical attention before the ambulance crew's arrival. Despite the severity of his condition, Mr. Whittaker highlighted Wakefield Green Watch team’s ability to lift his spirits through gentle humour, care, and banter, which significantly aided his emotional well-being during the event.

Mr. Whittaker’s subsequent hospital stay revealed the extent of his medical condition, where he spent several months in hospital, and continues to receive daily care from district nurses.

In his heartfelt message to the service, Mr. Whittaker extended his eternal gratitude to Wakefield Green Watch and emphasised their vital role in saving his life. “It’s impossible to find any words which adequately do justice to how utterly amazing the care and support I received from C/M Pickles and the individuals from Green Watch was on the evening of the 10th,” he said. He has also requested that Crew Manager Pickles and the Green Watch team be considered for a Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation.

This week, Mr. Whittaker had the opportunity to meet Crew Manager Pickles and express his gratitude in person at Wakefield Community Fire Station. Reflecting on the meeting, Crew Commander Pickles said, "It was really enjoyable to see Mr. Whittaker today and enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of cake together - and it was nice to see him looking fine and well. A rewarding experience."

Chief Fire Officer, at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, John Roberts said, “I am pleased WYFRS was able to respond to Mr Whittaker when he was most in need. The interventions of CM Pickles and the crew at Wakefield Green Watch positively helped and started the chain of events towards Mr Whittaker's recovery. I wish Mr Whittaker all the best of luck with his future health.”

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is proud of the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by Crew Manager Pickles and Wakefield Green Watch. Their actions not only reflect the high standards and values of the service, but also exemplify the extraordinary impact of teamwork and compassion in emergency services in the local community we serve.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service remains committed to supporting the community, making West Yorkshire safer, and providing exemplary service in times of need.

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