The borough of Sewickley Heights wishes to recognize and express its gratitude to the Sewickley Valley police, fire and ambulance services and other first responders for their remarkable coordinated emergency response to the incident that occurred on Backbone Road on Dec. 12.

The Sewickley Heights police, with assistance offered by the Sewickley, Edgeworth, Bell Acres and Ohio Township police departments, were on the scene within five minutes after the incident, followed within the next few minutes by Cochran Hose Company, Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Company and Ohio Township Volunteer Fire Company. Ambulances from Quaker Valley EMS arrived within four minutes of dispatch.

While all these first responders worked swiftly to secure the scene, emergency crews from Columbia Gas arrived, and Duquesne Light Co. and Sewickley Water Authority assisted as well. Representatives from the Allegheny County fire marshall and Emergency Management and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission were simultaneously engaged. The scene was declared under control less than 42 minutes after the first 911 call.

We stand in awe of the professionalism, efficiency and seamless actions of these individuals and organizations who cared for injuries, extinguished fires and rendered the scene secure. We are reminded of the selfless efforts of these individuals, who are often required to leave their families, jobs and concerns to answer the call to protect the public.

Council members and residents extend our deepest thanks to these dedicated individuals who courageously respond to emergency dispatches around the clock to keep our communities safe. We are counting our blessings.

Dr. George J. Magovern Jr.

Sewickley Heights

The writer is mayor of Sewickley Heights.

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