Little did Justin Freeman, 7, or Brad Babbel, 6, know that when they went out to play in their neighborhood for a little while before supper they would become heroes.

The incident took place on Monday, November 28, at around 5:30 p.m. on the 24900 block of 234th Pl. SE. While playing outside, the boys heard a pop sound and turned to see a neighbor’s roof smoking. Without hesitation, the boys made a dash for Freeman’s house where they told the parents to call 911. Upon learning what was transpiring, Justin’s dad, Dallas, headed over to the neighbor’s house where he quickly took a garden hose and put the fire out.

Although the fire was out, 911 was called for safety reasons. Maple Valley Fire & Life Safety (MVFLS) responded to the scene to make sure that there were no hot spots lurking in the walls or roof. During their investigation, it was discovered that an electrical extension cord for the Christmas lights had melted – which was causing the smoke. At the time of the incident, no one was at the neighbor’s home. According to firefighters, had the incident not been detected, the outcome may have been very different. As it ended, there was no damage to the house.

When asked how the boys knew how to respond, both the boys’ moms stated that the boys’ quick thinking could be contributed to having older siblings and parents talking now and then about calling 911 in case of emergency.

“They just kind of knew,” said Teresa Freeman and Charlene Babbel.

As a treat for a job well done, the boys were picked up at their home in a big fire engine from MVFLS Station #80 and driven to school. Both boys could hardly contain their excitement in anticipation of their big day. Justin woke up a few hours before it was time to get up wanting to know if it was time to go yet. Mom said – no – and sent him back to bed.

Then on Wednesday, December 7, it was time to enjoy that promised extra special ride to school. Making it even more special was that Justin turned 7 the same day. Upon arrival at Rock Creek Elementary, the boys were greeted with lots of classmates cheering for them as well as Clifford the big red Dog who was on campus promoting a book fair. After a flurry of questions and photo ops, Justin’s class sang happy birthday to him before he and Brad happily made their ways off to their respective classrooms surrounded by a whole group of friends.

Justin and Brad will be awarded Life Safety Certificates from MVFLS during the department’s monthly Fire Commissioner’s Board Meeting, located at Station #81 on SE 231st St., on Thursday, December 15, at 6 p.m.

Pictured: What a treat for two Maple Valley boy heroes – a ride to school (Rock Creek Elementary) in a Maple Valley Fire & Life Safety fire engine. Pictured L-R: Firefighters James Morrow and Matt Hunter; heroes Brad Babbel and Justin Freeman, Clifford, the big red Dog, and Firefighter Cary McCormick.