Last Thursday, a four-alarm fire ravaged a three-family home on Central Street and if it was not for the quick thinking and bravery of one of Saugus’s firemen, the awful event could have become a tragic one as well.

Saugus Fire Department
Firefighters from surrounding cities were quickly on the scene to battle a 4 alarm fire at 483 Central Street. Saugus fire Captain
Thomas Nolan,assisted by Dan Shea, rescued two residents who were trapped on the second floor of the fire ragged three decker. Congratulations on a job well done. Above, Lt. Chris Pozark of the Saugus Fire Dept.

While off duty and working nearby, Captain Thomas Nolan of the Saugus Fire Department ran into a burning home without fear for his own life to look for anyone who might be trapped inside. Making his way up to the second floor, Capt. Nolan found two people trapped by the smoke and fire. With the assistance of another Saugus firefighter, Capt. Dan Shea, he was able to save the lives of these two residents.

Two other off duty firefighters, Kevin McDermott and Mark Gannon, also came to the rescue and offered help. In addition, units from surrounding towns and cities including Lynn, Revere, Malden, Everett, Melrose and Wakefield assisted the Saugus Fire Department in containing the serious and fast-spreading fire.

This is just one more example of the brave men and women who, time and time again, forgo their own safety to protect the town of Saugus and its residents. These men, who when called upon risk their lives, never hesitate to answer the call, no matter what the circumstances. It’s easy to forget and pass off the everyday uneventful lives of our police and fire departments. But when catastrophe and chaos rear their ugly heads, it’s these men and women who jump into action. I know we should all be grateful and it’s only human nature to take these people for granted. But when a serious situation hits close to home, it’s always comforting to know we have such well-trained town employees.

Thank you to all of the Saugus Fire Department and especially Captain Thomas Nolan and Captain Don Shea for their quick thinking and response to this fire. We are all proud of you.