A South Surrey woman whose quick actions were credited with saving a senior couple from their burning home a year ago will be honoured for her bravery May 30 at the BC RCMP headquarters in Surrey.
Yvonne Bernardy-Dearden is among 21 B.C. citizens selected to receive a 2016 Royal Canadian Human Association Canada Bravery Award, to be presented by Lt.-Gov. Judith Guichon.
"These people have shown profound courage by placing their own lives at risk top help others in risky situations," a news release issued Tuesday afternoon states.
"They are all heroes and deserve the recognition they will be getting."
Bernardy-Dearden was on her way to work at the Vancouver airport just before 6 a.m. May 25, 2015 when she spotted flames coming from the side of Andy and Carole Johnston's house, in the 17000-block of 0 Avenue.
She called 911 while pounding on the couple's front door. The noise woke Andy Johnston, who answered the door, then wandered back inside, in a daze.
Bernardy-Dearden – who had gone around the side of the house when her initial banging got no response, then returned – entered the home, saw the Johnstons through the smoke and yelled at them to come to her. When they were close enough, she grabbed them and guided them out.
"Her actions no doubt saved their lives and a large part of the residence," a news release issued Tuesday states.
Bernardy-Dearden is to receive a Bronze Medal for Bravery.
The Royal Canadian Humane Association has been presenting bravery awards since 1894.
Monday's award will be Bernardy-Dearden's second recognizing her efforts in the May 2015 fire. Last June, she received Surrey Fire Services' first-ever public commendation.