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Detroit firefighters open up about close calls on the job

Posted at 3:08 PM, Mar 19, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-19 15:08:14-04

DETROIT (WXYZ) — More Detroit firefighters were recognized Tuesday for their life-saving efforts.

A few of our brave men and women opened up about what happened during those fire rescues. Two of the fires mentioned today involved children.

“Anytime that we can go somewhere make a difference and really affect somebody’s life, it makes us feel good as people, as medics, as representatives of the city and department," said Captain James Gatteno.

“It makes it worthwhile to say hey we came and did our job and somebody’s going home because of it," said Sergeant Daniel Salkowski. "It’s a proud and good feeling.”

Sergeant Daniel Salkowski is just one of the firefighters recognized for saving a life. Last month, seven children and four adults were in their home when it caught fire on Detroit's east side.

“My son-in-laws went out the window so they could get the kids out because it started in the front. They had to get the kids out the back so they went through the windows to get the kids out to make sure all the kids were gonna get out," said Edna Paul.

Edna Paul says her 27-year-old son-in-law, Steven, tried to get his 3-year-old son, Jayceon, but they ended up trapped. Thankfully crews were able to get the father and son out.

“By the time we looked at him to get him out, the fire had reached that room also, so 30 seconds would’ve made a huge difference in if they’d be here or not," said Sergeant Salkowski.

THE family says Steven and Jayceon are now recovering.