22 Calgarians Honoured for Selfless Heroics

From pulling people from burning vehicles to saving a man from drowning

Twenty-two Calgarians were recognized for extraordinary acts of bravery through the Calgary Fire Department Beyond the Call Awards, an annual program that honours everyday people who step in during emergencies—often risking their own safety to save others.

Among those honoured was Margaret Bell, a 55-year-old woman whose quick thinking and decisive action helped save a man from drowning in the Glenmore Reservoir during the summer of 2017.

A Walk That Turned Into a Life-Saving Moment

Bell was out for a walk along the Glenmore Reservoir on the morning of August 1 when she noticed something unusual near the Calgary Canoe Club—a paddle boat drifting in the water.

At first, she thought she was seeing a beaver bobbing in the water. Moments later, she realized it was a person struggling to stay afloat.

“I just knew that this person needed help,” Bell said. “They were splashing in the water, trying to stay above water.”

Fighting Cold Water and Time

Without hesitation, Bell ran down the ridge and stairs toward the shoreline and jumped into the cold reservoir. As she swam toward the man, she yelled to keep him responsive. He appeared weak and severely cold, likely suffering from hypothermia.

Using her fleece sweater, Bell managed to pull the man back to shore. He was too weak to stand, so she hoisted him onto her shoulders and helped him sit on a nearby rock.

A cyclist passing by called 911, and emergency crews were dispatched. The man survived.

“She made a split-second decision to help,” said a Calgary Fire Department spokesperson. “She knew her abilities and acted immediately. She made the difference in this young man’s life.”

Beyond the Call of Duty

Bell received a commendation award, which recognizes individuals who intervene in life-saving situations or put themselves at risk to protect others.

This year’s award recipients also:

Pulled people from burning vehicles and buildings
Performed CPR during cardiac arrests
Used AEDs to revive collapsed victims
Rescued multiple people—and even a dog—from drowning

Many of these rescues succeeded because bystanders acted before emergency responders arrived.

For a detailed account of Margaret Bell’s rescue and the full list of honourees, you can read the original report published by CBC News here:
22 Calgarians honoured for selfless heroics, from pulling people from burning cars to saving a drowning dog

Why CPR Training Saves Lives

In drowning and cardiac emergencies, the first few minutes are critical. Immediate CPR can double or even triple survival rates, especially when combined with early emergency response.

Learning CPR and AED skills gives everyday people the confidence to act when it matters most. If you want to be prepared for real-life emergencies like this one, consider enrolling in a CPR and AED training course.

Learn More About CPR and Water Rescue

Drowning First Aid – WebMD
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/drowning-treatment
CPR Basics – Healthline
https://www.healthline.com/health/first-aid/cpr
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation – Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardiopulmonary_resuscitation

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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