Earlier this week, Firefighter Sonny O’Connor was presented with The Society for the Protection of Life from Fire certificate. Since 1836 the Society has existed to give recognition to people who perform acts of bravery in rescuing others from the life-threatening effects of fires in the United Kingdom.
On 6 June 2024, at Emberton Play Fields (D-Day Anniversary ceremonial event) while off-duty, Sonny undertook the very courageous act, running to the aid of a member of the public who had accidently set themselves alight whilst igniting a ceremonial beacon. Following the announcement of this award, we received new information that further members of the community who have asked to remain anonymous, played a leading role in responding to the incident.
We were not aware of this involvement at the time of the award nomination, and we now want to acknowledge the actions of everyone who helped, for stepping in during such a serious and distressing moment.
In light of this, we are reviewing our internal processes to ensure that future nominations are based on the most complete and verified information available.
Sonny was presented the certificate by Simon Tuffley (Deputy Chief Fire Officer) and Councillor Keith McLean (Fire Authority Vice Chairman and Lead Member for Health and Safety and Corporate Risk). Sonny is also pictured alongside his colleague and mentor Firefighter Alfie Gardner-Potter.
Left to right: Deputy Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuffley, Firefighter Alfie Gardner-Potter, Firefighter Sonny O’Connor, Councillor Keith McLean
Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Simon Tuffley shared:
“I wanted to nominate Sonny because of how proud I am that he took it upon himself, using his initiative and courage to help a member of the public when in desperate need of help. This is testimony of the values and behaviours held by so many people in this Service.”
Update (9 June 2025): This article has been updated to reflect new information received after publication regarding the incident at Emberton on 6 June 2024.
Safety Advice
There are many ways to celebrate safely that don’t include lighting beacons, such as music, community gatherings, parades, planting trees, or holding meaningful ceremonies that bring people together.
If you do need to light a beacon, safety must always come first, ensure you’re up to date with our safety advice – Beacons.
