A junior member of the Peace River Fire Department is being recognized for quick thinking and calm action that helped save a life at a local restaurant earlier this year.
Seventeen-year-old Adam Liar, a member of the department’s Junior Firefighter Program, used skills he learned through his training to assist a woman who was choking while dining at the Board ‘n’ Barrel restaurant in Peace River.
Liar joined the Peace River Fire Department in January and has since completed training in Basic Life Support, which includes CPR, AED use, and choking response techniques. Alongside his firefighting training and high school studies, Liar works part-time at the Board ‘n’ Barrel as a food expeditor.
While working a shift this past summer, Liar noticed a guest in severe distress who was unable to breathe.
“Without hesitation, Adam calmly took control of the situation, reassured the guest, and then performed a choking relief manoeuvre, successfully dislodging a large piece of food from her airway,” said restaurant owner Kelly Whalen. “His quick thinking and calm, professional demeanour undoubtedly prevented a tragedy and we’re immensely proud to have him on our team.”
After the incident, Liar explained to the guest that he was trained in first aid and knew how to help.
“She was deeply grateful, and understandably shaken, but Adam handled everything with an incredible sense of composure and care,” Whalen said.
Fire Chief Tim Harris praised Liar’s actions, calling them a true reflection of what it means to serve as a firefighter.
“This is everything that it means to be a firefighter — to save a life,” Harris said. “We are very proud to have Adam as part of our Fire Department team. Training is a vital part of being a firefighter, and to have Adam perform those skills after only a few months on the job, and as a Junior Firefighter, is really an outstanding achievement. We are very grateful that he was there at the right time to assist the guest in distress.”
Harris also acknowledged the department’s instructors who provided the training that prepared Liar for the situation.
Liar’s actions were formally recognized during the Peace River Fire Department’s Annual Awards Night on December 6. Nominated by his peers, he received the Kenzie Peterson Junior Firefighter of the Year Award, which recognizes not only this life-saving incident but also his strong attendance, positive attitude, skill development, and teamwork.
In addition, Liar was presented with a Chief’s Coin, a rare honour that has only been awarded a handful of times since its introduction a decade ago.
“This special coin is to recognize exceptional actions, including saving a life,” Harris said. “Adam is a very worthy recipient and will make an excellent firefighter if he chooses this career.”
Whalen also presented Liar with a gift on behalf of the Board ‘n’ Barrel team in appreciation of his actions and professionalism during the incident.
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