Volunteer firefighter with developmental disability honored for protecting children

KELSO, Wash. – Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue honored one of their volunteers for keeping four kids safe during a fire in July.

Fire officials recognized 21-year-old Ryan LaFave at a fire commissioners meeting on Wednesday.

LaFave has a developmental disability.

On July 18, around 11:30 a.m., a kitchen fire started next door to LaFave’s house.

Four children, who also are developmentally disabled, were home at the time. The kids evacuated the home and ran next door to LaFave’s house to tell him about the fire.

LaFave called 911 and confirmed that all the kids were out of the home. He told them to stay out of the burning structure.

Wednesday, LaFave received a letter of commendation and a silver coin by Fire Chief Dave LaFave.

The silver coin is awarded to members of the fire department to recognize exemplary service to the public and department.