Nine Bay Minette firefighters were honored by Bay Minette City Council last week for their service during two separate rescue incidents in April.

On April 6, the Bay Minette Fire Department responded to a water rescue involving three teenagers stranded on a flooded roadway. The teens were found holding onto tree limbs atop a submerged car. Firefighters tied a utility rope to the front bumper of Rescue 1 and waded into the water to reach the group, according to reports from the city. After securing life jackets, they guided the teenagers to land.

Members of the Hayles family attended the council meeting to express their gratitude to the first responders.
Recognized for their efforts in the water rescue were Capt. Bobby Dolan, Capt. Rob Taylor, Firefighter Cody Stewart, Firefighter Alex Langston and Chief Mike Minchew.

On April 11, the department responded to a residential structure fire that was upgraded to a fire with entrapment while units were en route. The single-story home was already showing heavy smoke from the front door and gable vents. Firefighters established command, conducted a search and began attacking the blaze. The search team located the occupant, brought them to medical attention and later also rescued a dog from the residence.

Honored for their role in the fire response rescue were Capt. Hunter Smith, Lt. Dakota Melech, Firefighter Kaden Collins and Firefighter Roger Collier.

Mayor Bob Wills commended the firefighters for their courage and commitment to the community. Chief Minchew also praised the department's members for their daily efforts to keep Bay Minette safe. Each firefighter received a certificate for Meritorious Service and a commemorative pin. The certificates stated, in part, that "Your professionalism and compassion demonstrated during this response provided a calming force and reassurance to those involved that far exceeds the call of duty and the expectations of the Mayor and City Council."