Banksville Fire Honors Lifesaving Team Effort
Photo by Banksville Fire DepartmentBIFD members gather with the patient they helped save — a moment of gratitude and teamwork.
Photo by Banksville Fire DepartmentDeputy Chief Walter Watson receives the Lifesaving Award for his critical role in patient care.
Photo by Banksville Fire DepartmentLieutenant Gavin Kottoor honored with the Lifesaving Award for outstanding emergency response.
Photo by Banksville Fire DepartmentCivilian Jason Tobon recognized for initiating lifesaving CPR before first responders arrived.
Photo by Banksville Fire DepartmentBIFD team members proudly display their awards for lifesaving efforts and teamwork.
October 12, 2025 — The Banksville Independent Fire Department (BIFD) held a special recognition ceremony Sunday evening to honor members whose swift actions and exceptional prehospital care led to the survival of a cardiac arrest patient earlier this year.
On July 29, 2025, BIFD was dispatched on an Echo-level response — the highest priority in emergency medical dispatch — for a report of “CPR in progress.” Thanks to the quick guidance from Friends of 60 Control and the Westchester Uniformed Dispatchers Association, a community member began CPR before first responders arrived.
Working together with Armonk Fire Department, Westchester EMS, and the North Castle Police Department, BIFD EMTs and firefighters delivered lifesaving treatment that ultimately resulted in the patient’s full recovery. In a powerful moment, the survivor returned to the firehouse to personally thank the responders who saved their life.
Awards Presented:
- Lifesaving Awards: Lieutenant G. Kottoor, Deputy Chief W. Watson
- Civilian Award: Jason Tobon, for initiating CPR before responders’ arrival
- Unit Citation: A. Farquhar, G. Kottoor, R. Farquhar, A. Levy, M. Pugni, and W. Watson for outstanding teamwork and coordination
“It was an incredible honor to reunite with this patient,” the department said, emphasizing that the event highlights the vital importance of community action, emergency dispatch coordination, and the dedication of first responders.
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