HOPEDALE – A Hopedale firefighter has been recognized at the Massachusetts Firefighter of the Year Awards for his quick thinking during a medical emergency. Jeff Cote, who also serves as an instructor at the state Fire Academy, received the Stephen D. Coan Fire Marshal’s Award for his actions during a training incident last winter.
According to Hopedale Town News, the emergency occurred on a training burn day when a fire academy recruit suddenly went into cardiac arrest on campus. Cote immediately stepped in, performing critical medical procedures that restored the recruit’s pulse while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance.
Officials say Cote’s swift response and advanced training played a key role in saving the recruit’s life, earning him statewide recognition for his professionalism and dedication to public safety.
