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Steven Harmer, Shingle Springs, CA

Man in front of U.S. flag
Shingle Springs, CA, Rural Carrier Steven Harmer

Rural Carrier Steven Harmer was recently delivering mail in Shingle Springs, CA, when he spotted smoke billowing from a brush fire.

Harmer was concerned that the blaze — reportedly caused by a construction crew mishap — threatened a nearby residence, so he immediately drove closer and started honking his horn.

A woman who was home with her four grandchildren soon emerged, unaware of the crisis.

With flames quickly spreading, the Postal Service employee helped the group into a family vehicle.

While the grandmother drove to safety, Harmer secured a dog and three kittens at risk outside, then grabbed a garden hose and sprayed the ground around the home’s perimeter until firefighters arrived and took over.

As he continued his route, he saw the family parked alongside a road and assured them the emergency was under control.

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