By FireRescue1 Staff
ST. JAMES, N.Y. — A volunteer firefighter was awarded the Medal of Valor last month for his lifesaving efforts during a fire last August.
Kevin Peterson responded to calls of fallen electrical wires Aug. 4, 2015 during a severe thunderstorm. One of the fallen wires sparked a house fire, where Peterson was the first on scene, reported the Smithtown Patch. Peterson received an electrical shock after attempting to touch the front door to notify residents. The shock knocked him off the porch.
Peterson was still able to notify residents and safely evacuate them.
As other firefighters extinguished the blaze, Peterson was evaluated for his injuries but refused medical treatment.
Family members and colleagues of Peterson attended the Sept. 25 ceremony, where he was awarded the Medal of Valor.