On Sunday, 19 April 2020, Cameron, 9-year-old Cub Scout was first up in his household and went through to the kitchen at approximately 07:30am. When he reached the glass panelled door, he saw that the room was full of smoke. He did not enter but woke the rest of the family.
The boiler had failed and caught fire, the cupboard door was burnt through, and flames were climbing up the door. After evacuating swiftly with their beloved pets, the family raised the fire alarm. Thanks to the quick actions of the local fire brigade and Cameron’s calm demeanour, the damage was contained.
After hearing about Cameron’s actions, Regional Commissioner Dougie Simmers along with Stewart Murray (Watch Commander) have honoured Cameron with Scout Gallantry Cross and Chief Fire Officers Commendation respectfully, two of the highest awards available in both organisations.
Cameron said “I woke up one day and went to get my breakfast. I could see smoke everywhere through the kitchen door. I didn’t want to go in so went to wake up Hannah and Mum and Dad. The firemen saved our house and gave Hannah and me a Teddy Bear. Thank you everyone for being so kind”
Dougie Simmers commented: “This incident could easily have spiralled into a much greater issue if Cameron had not acted in the way he did, by raising the alarm allowing the family to escape the house safely. He’s a fantastic young person and we are immensely proud of him for the way he handled this situation.”