Lanark County paramedic honoured with medal for heroic rescue from burning vehicle

A Lanark County paramedic has certainly earned the title of hero after risking his life to rescue an unconscious driver from a burning vehicle earlier this year. This act of bravery has earned him one of Ontario’s highest honours in the field.

On Monday, May 26, 2025 Paramedic Superintendent Michael White received the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery. The medal, which is awarded to just seven recipients this year, is reserved for those who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the line of duty. According to a release from the Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA), fewer than one percent of Ontario’s 11,000 paramedics have ever received it.

Caitlin O’Hara, Communications Lead with the MRHA called White’s actions “a powerful example of the courage and dedication shown by first responders in our communities.”

White’s act of heroism occurred in the early morning hours of January 1, 2025, when he responded to a single-vehicle rollover while on duty at the Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) headquarters. The car had struck a tree and landed in the front yard of a home, its front end engulfed in flames with the driver unconscious and trapped inside.

With the vehicle burning and the doors jammed, White managed to force pen a rear door and pulled the occupant to safety. He then began life-saving treatment on the driver just moments before the fire intensified and tires began to explode.

“Without hesitation, Superintendent White placed himself in harm’s way to help a member of the community in their time of need,” said LCPS Chief Travis Mellema in the press release. “This is the fifth member of our service to receive this award in the past three years, demonstrating the exceptional commitment our staff bring to their work.”

For a full list of this year’s recipients, visit the Ontario Newsroom.