Graham honors two men who saved neighbor from house fire

Two young men who stopped on their way home and rapped on a front door in late November were commended Tuesday night by the Graham Fire Department and the Graham city council for actions that saved a resident’s life.

The incident began about 6:25 a.m. on Nov. 29 at a home on 719 Williamsdale Road, when Andrew Heath and Omar Utley noticed smoke coming from the residence and a vehicle in the driveway, suggesting someone might be inside. According to Graham fire chief Tommy Cole, the pair repeatedly knocked until they awakened the woman who was asleep and helped her leave the house before fire crews arrived.

The department publicly praised Heath and Utley the morning of the fire, saying in a statement that “[they] stopped to alert the residents,” and “the lone resident was able to escape the fire without injury. There is no doubt that the heroic actions of these young men saved a life in Graham today.”

Chief Cole reiterated that assessment this week, noting the narrow margin between survival and tragedy when smoke spreads through a home. “Had they not taken immediate action to alert the occupant, [she] would likely have succumbed to smoke inhalation before emergency responders arrived on scene. Their actions exemplify the importance of community awareness and the critical role citizens can play in emergencies,” Cole said.

The city council’s acknowledgement Tuesday night included applause from council members and formal commendation from the fire department. In a commemoration, Cole said the department commends Mr. Heath and Mr. Utley for their quick thinking, selfless actions, and commitment to the safety of others.

For Alamance County residents, the episode is a reminder of how quickly structure fires can become life-threatening and how neighbors often form the first line of defense. The quick response meant no injuries and no prolonged street closures, limiting emergency costs and reducing disruption in the Williamsdale Road neighborhood.

Local emergency services continue to emphasize prevention and preparedness. While professional responders are trained and equipped to handle fires, this case underscores how bystander vigilance and timely intervention can change outcomes. For Graham residents, the city’s recognition of Heath and Utley both honors their courage and highlights a practical lesson: being alert, checking on unusual signs like smoke or vehicles at odd hours, and acting decisively can make the difference between a close call and a fatality. The community can take that lesson into daily routines this winter as colder weather increases household fire risks.