December 11, 2002

PRESS RELEASE
To: Newsroom
For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer
Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Woman Seriously Burnt in Early Morning Accident

A Shreveport woman is listed in serious condition at LSUS’ Health Science Center after receiving second and third degree burns to more than 50 percent of her body following a terrible early morning accident . . .

Monica Johnson, 25, was rushed to the hospital by firefighter paramedics just after 5:00 a.m. for treatment of her burn injuries that involved her upper torso and arms resulting from her nightgown catching fire from an open-flame space heater in her home at 1731 Looney Street. As her gown burned, Johnson ran to a neighbor’s home at 1734 Looney seeking help. When Alfred Anderson, 45, opened his front door, he said flames were shooting over Johnson’s head. Anderson immediately grabbed Johnson and wrestled her to the ground rolling her until the fire was extinguished. Anderson was treated at the scene but not transported to the hospital for minor burns to his hands where the material of the gown had melted to his skin.

Fire officials are crediting Anderson’s quick and appropriate actions with saving Johnson’s life. "Without question, had Mr. Anderson not acted in a quick and appropriate manner to extinguish the fire, Ms. Johnson would not have survived the incident, said Captain Mike Mackey. The "Stop, Drop, and Roll" message is taught throughout Shreveport schools by the Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division. It is a proven method for extinguishing fire on your person or individuals. ###