Three Mount Carmel emergency personnel were honored Tuesday night for life-saving actions during two separate incidents.
During the Mount Carmel City Council meeting, Police Chief Mike McWilliams presented Lifesaving Awards to 911 Dispatcher Mary Sweppy, Police Officer Dayton Brim, and Sergeant Gilbert Santos.
Dispatcher Sweppy was recognized for her role in rescuing a driver who became trapped in high water at Bon Pas Creek last year. Chief McWilliams said Sweppy’s calm demeanor and quick thinking helped guide the driver to safety by instructing him to climb out of his vehicle and onto the roof as floodwaters rose. While keeping the victim on the line, Sweppy simultaneously coordinated multiple emergency responders. McWilliams said her actions likely prevented a drowning.
In a separate incident, Officer Dayton Brim and Sergeant Gilbert Santos were honored for saving the life of a Mount Carmel woman who had stopped breathing during the early morning hours. Officers arrived on scene and used an AED to deliver a shock before continuing CPR until first responders arrived. The woman later made a full recovery.
Chief McWilliams praised all involved for their training, professionalism, and teamwork, saying outcomes like these require every step to go right. He also noted the vital role dispatchers play during emergencies.
The awards were presented before council members and community members, who responded with applause in appreciation of the life-saving efforts.
The video of the presentation can be found via this link:
