Firefighters awarded prestigious honour for life-saving efforts after fatal silo collapse

(L-R) Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services Chief Phil Eagelson, Inter-Township Fire Department Fire Chief Jeff Gautreau, Georgian Bluffs Mayor Sue Carleton, OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique, Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services firefighter Jay Gow, Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services Training Officer Jason Redmond. (Supplied)

A veteran firefighter who jumped into action to help save several people after a grain silo collapsed last year in Georgian Bluffs was recognized with a prestigious award.

Jay Gow, a 28-year firefighter with the Owen Sound Fire and Emergency Services, received the Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner’s Citation for Lifesaving. Gow is credited with the “courageous and unconventional rescue of three men” after the silo collapsed at a workplace on Grey Road 5 in October, killing two workers.

The two workers fatally injured were inside the silo when a scaffold collapsed, the Ministry of Labour confirmed following the incident near Mennonite Corners.

“This is an incredible honour, and we are extremely proud of firefighter Gow and our colleagues in Georgian Bluffs for their quick thinking, bravery, and teamwork in what was a highly dangerous and unpredictable situation. Their actions exemplify the best of our emergency services and the strength of regional cooperation,” stated Owen Sound Mayor Ian Boddy.

Along with Gow, two members of the Inter-Township Fire Department, Deputy Chief Andy Redmond and Fire Chief Jeff Gautreau, were also awarded for their efforts that day.

“The courage shown by all of our firefighters that day is nothing short of extraordinary. Jeff and Andy have been pillars of the Inter-Township Fire Department, and their leadership has helped shape a team that is ready to respond when it matters most,” added Georgian Bluffs Mayor Sue Carelton.

The OPP Commissioner’s Citation for Lifesaving is awarded to individuals who demonstrate acts of bravery and compassion in life-threatening situations.