When faced with danger, some people may panic or freeze, but that’s not the case for 10 young Calgarians who were recognized Friday for their incredible efforts to call 911 during emergency incidents.

The City of Calgary presented its 911 Heroes Awards on Friday, honoring people aged 10 to 15 who picked up the phone to call for help and save lives.

“Everyone is intimidated or scared in an emergency, but these 10 kids showed courage, did the right thing and called 911,” said Glenda Sahlen, Calgary’s deputy chief of 911 operations. .

“They saved structures from fires, they saved people from medical emergencies and did a lot of good work that most adults sometimes wouldn’t feel comfortable doing.”

Among this year’s recipients was 15-year-old Nabiha Azami, who called for help after seeing a young girl hit by a car near Saddlemont Boulevard in the early morning hours of December 18, 2023.

“It was really dark that morning and I guess the driver didn’t see the girl when she was crossing the road, so at first it was a little scary,” Azami said.

Among this year’s recipients was 15-year-old Nabiha Azami, who called for help after seeing a young girl hit by a car near Saddlemont Boulevard in the early morning hours of December 18, 2023.

“But my instincts kicked in, it was an emergency and I had to stay calm to make sure she got the help she needed. To be recognized for this makes me truly honored.

Others who received a Heroes Award included Mauricio Olivares, 14, who spotted a small grass fire starting to grow near the Glenmore Inn on a hot August day last year .

“I was outside with my little brothers and sisters when I smelled fire and so the first thing I did was call 911 and explain where the place was,” she said. Olivares said.

“It was on a hill, getting bigger and bigger and I was told it could have gotten worse and turned into an electrical fire, so that was a bit scary,” he added.

“It was so important to stay calm and I was happy I had the chance to be that person who calls 911 and helps save anyone from getting hurt.”

Others who received a Heroes Award included Mauricio Olivares, 14, who spotted a small grass fire starting to grow near the Glenmore Inn on a hot August day last year .

The 911 Heroes Awards are presented each year to young Calgarians who demonstrate courage and bravery.

Sahlen adds that anyone calling 911 in an emergency should remain as calm as possible and give an accurate address or description of their location.

“We will always find you, it makes things faster, so never be afraid to call, we are here for everyone,” she said.

“They remained calm and sometimes even provided translation services for their parents and important descriptions for the firefighters. Recognizing these kids and all they have done is very positive and one of my favorite events of the year.