During a recent government meeting, Eris Carter, a fifth-grade student at Thompson Elementary Academy, was honored with the Southfield Fire Department's Good Samaritan Award for her quick thinking and bravery in the face of a fire emergency.

Earlier this year, Eris noticed the smell of smoke in her condo complex and promptly alerted her mother. Together, they investigated the source of the odor and discovered that smoke detectors were sounding in one of the bottom units. Without hesitation, they called 911 to report the situation. As they waited for help, they confirmed that one of the units was indeed on fire, with visible smoke and flames upon the arrival of emergency responders.

Thanks to Eris's alertness and decisive actions, six other units were saved from potential destruction, and the risk of injury or loss of life was significantly reduced. The fire caused considerable damage to the affected unit, but Eris's proactive response was credited with preventing a more catastrophic outcome.

In recognition of her courageous actions, Eris received the award, along with a special challenge point from the meeting's host, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance and the impact of individual actions in emergency situations.