Tom witnessed a reddish glow in the distance and sprinted to the scene where he saw a building engulfed in thick, choking smoke. As the flames rose higher, the heat and smoke made it difficult for Tom to breathe. He called for help and the fire department arrived, evacuating nearby buildings safely while using long hoses to spray water at the raging flames. With skill and bravery, Tom helped coax an old woman to safety. After a long battle, the fire was brought under control and reduced to smoldering embers.