State, city, neighbors honor young hero

Date: 3/17/2010

March 17, 2010.

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



SPRINGFIELD -- Warner School fourth grader Ian Marron was honored on March 9 for an act of heroism for which his education prepared him: knowing what to do when a fire occurs in your home.

Ian woke up his mother Michelle and other family members on Feb. 14 when he heard the smoke alarms go off at their home at the Boston Road Mobile Home Park. Thanks to his Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE), Ian knew to go to a pre-determined family meeting place and not to go back into his dwelling, despite the fact he wanted to save his dog DJ, who died in the blaze.

Michelle told Reminder Publications the family's home was destroyed and they have been assisted by the Red Cross. They are currently staying with friends until a new home can be found.

Warner School Principal Dr. Ann Stennett, Mayor Domenic Sarno, Fire Commissioner Gary Cassanelli, School Superintendent Alan Ingram and Public Information Officer Jennifer Mieth all praised the student during an assembly at the school.

"Sometimes learning can save a life," Sarno said. "You're a young hero. You're a role model."

Mieth said that since 1999, when 18 children lost their lives in house fires, the number of deaths dropped to six last year, due to the SAFE curriculum in the Commonwealth's elementary schools.

"I believe this is making a big difference," she said.

She presented Ian with a special T-shirt -- one of only 250 across the state -- and a certificate from State Fire Marshal Steven Coan.

Ian also received a hand held NintendoDS and a gift certificate from his neighbors at the mobile home park, which brought a wide grin to his face and cheers from his classmates.

"What this proves to you kids," Sarno admonished, "is how important it is to pay attention and learn in school."