Star Staff Reports
On Sunday, July 3, Carl Doherty, who lives in the Waverly Farms neighborhood on Ridge Bay Cove, noticed smoke coming from behind the home located at 4392 Ridge Bay Cove. His call to 9-1-1 informed Shelby County Fire Department dispatchers that no one was home at the time. As the fire in the back of the home grew larger, the LaVoice family who lives next to the burning home, jumped into action in an effort to knock down the increasing flames. With the assistance of another neighbor, 10-year-old Joshua, and 7-year-old Noah along with their mother Shirl gathered hoses, nozzles and ladders and began streaming as much water as they could upon the increasing flames. In all, their efforts lasted several minutes while fire fighters from Rescue 66 were enroute to the scene. ”I don’t know if the boys would have done what they did without the guidance and teachings of their dedicated father, Michael, who has been so instrumental in their daily lives” said Shirl LaVoice. “They’re home schooled.” their mother said, “and we teach them all we can from the basics to the complex. “But it’s these real-life situations that allow them to really apply what they learn in the day to day things that they experience. We’re so very proud of them.” The LaVoice familiy is a part of the “Home Life Academy” and are members of Memphis Home Schooling Education Association (MHEA). Upon arrival SCFD fire fighters noted that the flames had been brought under control and were virtually suppressed in what led to the saving of the home. Although firefighters remained on the scene and hit the hot spots and remaining embers with the large attack lines, it was clear that it was the boys’ fast reaction to the emergency that saved the day.
Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell, Jr, and SCFD Fire Chief Alvin D. Benson acknowledge the valiant and fearless efforts of those who took part in the initial suppression of this fire emergency – and commend them for the honorable actions on that day.
