Two local dispatchers, left, were recognized by the City of Butler and the local firefighters union after helping firefighters locate a trapped teen in an active structure fire April 8. Submitted photo

The hard work and heroism of two local dispatchers were recognized by the City of Butler and the local firefighters union after they helped firefighters locate a trapped occupant in an active structure fire April 8.

Robert Samarin and Nathan Blackwood were presented with a unit citation on behalf of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 114 on Tuesday, April 14, for their dedication to duty and commitment to public safety.

Crews responded to a structure fire with entrapment on the morning of April 8 at a house on Center Avenue in Butler. At the time, a 16-year-old girl called 911 while trapped in a second-story bedroom. She fell unconscious before help arrived.

When firefighters arrived, the dispatchers were able to guide them to her exact location in the house. They provided “clear, concise and accurate” information on the spot that was “vital to the success of the operation,” according to the union.

“From the initial dispatch and throughout the incident, communications personnel from Butler County 911 demonstrated exceptional professionalism, composure, and effectiveness under pressure,” an IAFF Local 114 Facebook post read. “Through calm and efficient communication, they were able to obtain and relay crucial details regarding the location of a trapped occupant on the second flood of the residence.”

The girl who was rescued is recovering and in stable condition at AHN West Penn Hospital’s Burn Center.

“The dispatchers’ actions exemplified the highest standards of emergency communications,” the post read. “Their situational awareness, attention to detail, and unwavering focus significantly enhanced on-scene operations and played a critical role in supporting lifesaving efforts.”

At an April 9 city council meeting, officials recognized the firefighters and dispatchers for quick thinking under pressure and responding exponentially fast to the emergency. Butler Bureau of Fire Chief Chris Switala said the dispatchers stayed on the line with the girl and were able to relay information on her exact location in the house. They did so by staying on the call after she passed out, and listening to the firefighters through the other end of the call.

“Kudos to them. The fire the other day, critical response, I heard they were there in 10 minutes. And the dispatchers did an incredible job on that call, both the call taker and the dispatcher,” Mayor Bob Dandoy said Thursday night.