Winchendon, MA – An ordinary walk in the woods turned into a heroic moment for 8-year-old Brayden Roberts this week, when he discovered a brush fire deep in the forest and took quick action to protect his community.
Brayden was walking nearly a mile into the woods with a family member when they came across smoke and flames spreading through the dry brush. Realizing the danger, Brayden quickly ran back home—covering the distance on foot—to make sure 911 was contacted. Without hesitation, he returned to the scene with another family member and a bucket to attempt to draw water from a nearby stream.
While awaiting the arrival of the Winchendon Fire Department, Brayden helped attempt to control the flames, showing determination far beyond his years. Fire crews quickly took over and extinguished the fire before it could spread further, but credited Brayden’s quick thinking and swift response for helping prevent a more serious incident.
“This young man’s actions were nothing short of courageous,” said Winchendon Fire Chief Thomas Smith. “He recognized a dangerous situation, got help immediately. That’s bravery.”
Brayden’s heroism is a reminder of how even the smallest members of a community can make a big difference when faced with an emergency.
Today the young hero was able to come to the Winchendon Fire Station to be thanked for his efforts by non-other than Smokey the Bear. Smokey was accompanied by District 8 Fire Warden Patricia Correia. These events were something that the young hero will certainly remember for a long time.
