Article posted on December 19, 2025
Junior firefighter uses skills learned to save a person from choking
A junior Peace River firefighter put the skills he had learned at the Fire Department into action and saved the life of a woman who was choking at a local restaurant.
Adam Liar, 17, has been a member of the Junior Firefighter Program since joining the Peace River Department in January of 2025. Part of his training included Basic Life Support, which involves skills used for CPR, AED use, and choking incidents.
As well as attending high school and the fire department, Adam works part-time at the Board ‘n’ Barrel restaurant in Peace River as a food expeditor. While working there one day this past summer, Adam noticed a guest in serious distress who was choking and couldn’t breathe.
“Without hesitation, Adam calmly took control of the situation, reassured the guest, and then performed a choking relief maneuver, successfully dislodging a large piece of food from her airway,” said Kelly Whalen, owner of the restaurant. “His quick thinking and calm, professional demeanour undoubtedly prevented a tragedy and we’re immensely proud to have him on our team."
Afterward, Adam explained to the guest that he was trained in first aid and knew exactly how to help.
“She was deeply grateful, and understandably shaken, but Adam handled everything with an incredible sense of composure and care,” said Whalen.
“This is everything that it means to be a firefighter – to save a life,” said Fire Chief Tim Harris, “and we are also very proud to have Adam as part of our fire department team. Training is a vital part of being a firefighter and to have Adam perform those skills after only a few months on the job, and as a junior firefighter, is really an outstanding achievement. We are very grateful that he was there at the right time to assist the guest in distress."
Chief Harris also expressed his appreciation for the instructors in the department who provided Adam with the skills that he used that day.
Adam was recently recognized for his actions at the Fire Department’s Annual Awards Night held on December 6th. Adam was nominated by his peers and was the successful recipient of the Kenzie Peterson Junior Firefighter of the Year Award.
“Adam received this award not only for these actions, but also for his general attendance, attitude, gain in skills, and interaction with others,” said Chief Harris.
Adam was also presented with a Chief’s Coin during the event.
“This special coin has only been presented a few times since its inception 10 years ago and is to recognize exceptional actions, including saving a life,” said Chief Harris. “Adam is a very worthy recipient and will make an excellent firefighter if he chooses this career”.
Whalen also presented a gift to Adam on behalf of the Board ‘n’ Barrel team in appreciation of his actions at the restaurant.
Above: Fire Chief Tim Harris presents Junior Firefighter Adam Liar with the Kenzie Peterson Junior Firefighter of the Year Award.
Press release and photos courtesy of the Town of Peace River, issued December 17, 2025
Last Updated: Friday, December 19, 2025