A NURSE who helped save a man from a burning car while her own clothing was catching fire has gained a CFA chief officer's commendation.
Monash Medical Centre nurse Susan Johnson last week also received a CFA 10-year service award for her volunteer work at the Narre Warren CFA.
Ms Johnson played a vital role in February's Black Saturday bushfires as a firefighter and first-aid person. Then, on June 4 this year, the 47-year-old Narre Warren resident rescued a man who was trapped in a burning car after a crash on Drysdale Avenue in Narre Warren North. Ms Johnson said the car ignited while she was still inside it.
Her jacket caught alight as she was dragged out of the car by another CFA volunteer.
The male driver received burns to 60per cent of his body but Ms Johnson was protected from injury by her CFA protective uniform.
Southern Health nurse unit manager Theo Does said Ms Johnson was a great example of someone with true dedication and bravery.
"Susan has recently qualified as a division one nurse and still somehow finds the time to maintain her commitment as a volunteer firefighter."
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