Two Brighton men recognized for bravery during Chapel Street house fire

Joel Dempster, Matthew Schonauer-Courtesy of Municipality of Brighton.

By: Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative.

Brighton

Two Brighton citizens were recognized by the municipal council this week for alerting their neighbours to a house fire.

Matthew Schonauer and Joel Dempster woke a family of five early on  March 17 as their Chapel Street house was engulfed in flames. Two adults and three young children escaped the home safely. 

Mayor Brian Ostrander commended Schonauer and Dempster for their bravery that night.

“For their incredible bravery and selflessness in waking their neighbours after noticing that their house had become engulfed in flames. Their quick thinking and willingness to put others first, exemplifies the very best of Brighton,” explained Ostrander. “We are certainly grateful that you put yourself second to others and your acts of courage like this are reminders of the importance of looking for one another.”

Schonauer and Dempster were at council Monday to receive their commendations from Mayor Ostrander.

Chapel Street House Fire Brighton. Courtesy of Northumberland OPP.

The Brighton Fire Department and Northumberland OPP responded to the Chapel Street fire at approximately 2 AM March 17. Fire Chief Gene Thompson confirmed following the fire that neighbours informed the family of the blaze. He also stated that the fire alarms in the house were working that day.


While the investigation into the cause of the blaze is still ongoing, damage to the home is initially estimated at $350,000. Two people were taken to local hospital as a precaution. Since the fire the community has rallied for the family with donations and support, to help them rebuild.

“Don’t run into burning buildings, people. But, well done gentlemen! Its hard to give that message, it's a catch-22,” Ostander said.