24-02-2025
7-year-old boy recognized for saving family in Belton house fire
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A 7-year-old boy from Belton, Missouri, has been recognized by local fire crews after he alerted his family of a house fire last week, leading to the safety of everyone inside.
In a Facebook post, the Belton Fire Department said that on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at about 11:30 p.m., crews were called to a 'residential structure' where a fire had been reported in part of the home.
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It was said a 7-year-old boy, Maxwell Ladesic, had heard the smoke detector go off and instantly sprang into action.
After remembering some of the lessons from his fire safety classes, Ladesic dropped to the floor, saw the smoke and fire, and alerted his grandfather and mother.
The act of bravery allowed him and his family to escape and call 911.
When Belton fire crews arrived, they reportedly found the fire contained to a 'malfunctioned electrical device' and a 'small piece of furniture.' It was then put out.
A few days after the incident, on Friday, Feb. 21, the Belton Fire Department honored Ladesic as a hero and acknowledged his quick thinking by awarding him a Certificate of Recognition at his school.
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The young boy was also given a shirt and a patch from the fire department, and his class received stickers, badges and fire safety books during the visit.
Ladesic's mother said she is extremely proud and thankful for her son.
According to the fire department, 'This incident only underscores the importance of working smoke detectors and the role they play in the safety of Belton residents.'
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