Captain Leopold and Firefighter Harrison Save Jackson Township Woman From House Fire
As Jerry Valentine, of the Jackson Township Highway Department made his rounds salting the roads on November 18, 2008 he saw smoke coming from the residence of Christine Habony. Valentine quickly called the Jackson Township Fire Department when nobody answered as he banged on the door.
Engine Two arrived on scene. Firefighter Harrison and Captain Leopold advanced a line inside, and discovered Christine Habony unconscious. Harrison and Leopold removed Christine from the house and firefighters outside administered CPR. Christine was taken to Affinity Medical Center and later flown to Akron General.
Also saved in this fire was Christine’s rottweiler. The Stark County Humane Society was holding the rottweiler until family could pick up the dog.
“I think in the matter of just minutes it made a difference and hopefully the long term effect will be positive. The key thing was the snow plow operator,” said Chief Heck.
The Fire Chief called Valentine a hero.
“No I don’t think I’m a hero. Any good natured person that would’ve been in the area would’ve done the same thing”, Jerry said.
“Gary and I were a small part of an operation that went really well this morning,” Leopold said Tuesday.
Firefighters Frank Schneider and Dave Seibert and paramedic Thom Ross also were credited. Outside, Schneider and Seibert helped while Ross performed CPR, Leopold said.
Tags: House Fire, Jackson Township, Rescue
To all you, my deepest thanks. Your bravery gave my sister a second chance which unfortunately wasn’t God’s will. I will forever be in debt to you all for your efforts, dedication, and strong will. Thank you all from myself and the rest of my family.
Thom: a personal thank you to you as well. Chris and I both knew you fairly well many years ago from school. Knowing you were involved with her rescue really hits home on a personal level. I thank you for everything you’ve done.