Glastonbury Resident Part of Eversource Line Crew That Made Daring Rescue

GLASTONBURY, CT — A Glastonbury resident was a member of an Eversource Energy lineworker crew that sprang into action recently after witnessing an accident on the way back to the company’s East Hampton work center.

A man had crashed his car through the back wall of the garage of his Columbia home and into a large propane-fired generator, Eversource officials said.

Lineworkers Dave Hunter of Glastonbury and Mike McDermott of Cromwell, along with others in the crew, helped evacuate the driver and his wife from the premises and turn off the propane supply, Eversource officials said.

Hunter and McDermott’s efforts were recently recognized by the company with the Eversource Customer Excellence Award, which honors employees who go above and beyond the call of duty to help others.

“I’m very humbled to receive this award,” Hunter said. “Our response goes right back to our training out in the field. You have to be aware of what is going on around you and safety is always our top priority. Their safety was in jeopardy.”

Added McDermott, “We were at the right place at the right time. I’m glad we were able to help.”

Had McDermott, Hunter, and the crew not been there, the outcome could have been much worse, a fire official said.

“There were a number of variables that could have led to a catastrophic event—a propane leak with multiple ignition sources, a gasoline leak with multiple ignition sources and structural damage to an occupied home,” Columbia Volunteer Fire Department Chief Peter Starkel said. “The quick actions of the team directly led to a positive outcome.”

Eversource Vice President, Electric Field Operations Steve Gilkey said in presenting the award, “They went above and beyond to help this couple in a time of crisis. It’s a true example of how our employees here work hard to be safe every day.”

In honor of Hunter and McDermott’s achievement, Eversource plans to donations to the non-profits of the men's choices —the Lyndon State College Lacrosse Team and the Hospital for Special Care Department of Neuromuscular Clinic Fund.

Photo Credit: Eversource