Local Girl Scout Honored by State Fire Organization

At just 8 years old, Abby Beranek has received more recognition than most people receive in a lifetime.

It all started with a trip to Lemont Fire Station 1, 15900 New Ave., where Beranek's Daisy Girl Scout troop learned about fire safety and prevention. The presentation was led by Jeff Hawthorne, director of fire safety for the .

Just two days later, a fire broke out in the laundry room of the Beranek's home.

While Abby's mom, Beth Beranek, ran to gather her youngest three children, Abby remained calm. Using lessons from her field trip two days earlier, she made sure her family got out of the house immediately and and that no one else tried to enter.

"During the fire house visit, Abby learned to 'get out and stay out,' and that's exactly what she did," Beth Beranek . "We also had discussed where we would meet in the event of a fire, so she knew to go to the neighbors, and was able to help me get my 18-month-old boys and 3-month-old girl over there, too."

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Following the fire, Abby was honored by firefighters and elected officials in a number of ceremonies.

The Lemont Fire Protection District formally recognized Abby as a local hero during their May 20 board meeting. Lemont Mayor Brian Reaves read a proclamation in her honor, and Lemont Trustee Paul Chialdikas sent a $25 gift certificate for Abby to dine at his restaurant, .

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On May. 26, U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert (R-13) in front of Congress.

Last week, Abby received her latest recognition — a Youth Hero Award from the Illinois Fire Inspectors Association (IFIA). She was presented a plaque and $25 gift card during the organization's annual Fire Prevention Week Awards Luncheon on Oct. 28.

According to the IFIA, the Youth Hero Award is presented to children and young adults under the age of 18 who performed an outstanding act of bravery and forward thinking that resulted in saving someone's life or property.

Beranek was one of five Chicago-area children to earn the recognition. She was nominated by Hawthorne, who said during Friday's luncheon that Abby "has been one of the best things to ever happen to fire safety education in Lemont."

"Whenever I speak to groups of kids now, I tell Abby's story," Hawthorne said. "There's no better example."

Abby is currently a second-grader at SS. Cyril and Methodius School, and celebrated her eighth birthday just last month.