On Nov. 27, OC Transpo bus operator Paolo Paz went to work on what he thought would be another ordinary day.
But when the 35-year-old Ottawa resident witnessed a collision between a car and motorcycle at the intersection of Richmond Road and High Street, he sprang into action.
Paz immediately stopped his bus and blocked the street to prevent other vehicles from driving through.
He called police and paramedics and cared for the motorcyclist, who had been run over by a fleeing vehicle.
Yesterday, Paz was named the 2009 Transecure employee of the year, and was one of 12 transit employees honoured during the 20th annual Transecure awards ceremony.
The employees, who reunited lost children with their families, helped people in medical distress and reported crimes that led to arrests, were recognized for going beyond the call of duty.
“Our mass transit system and the safety and security of our residents and visitors riding our transit system has a very high priority,” said Mayor Larry O’Brien. “OC Transpo employees are on the road around the clock.
“They are our eyes and our ears. Every day, they not only ensure transit users make their destinations on time, but also keep a watchful eye, providing assistance when needed.”
“Transecure is a community watch program on wheels in our city,” said transit committee chair Coun. Alex Cullen.
“OC Transpo employees are roving the city every day, all day. They may be the first to spot fires, accidents, the first to notice lost children or seniors in need. The quicker they act on what they see, the sooner the situation can be handled successfully.”
There were 314 Transecure calls logged last year. Since its inception in 1989, employees have logged 9,117 calls.
