Letter Carrier Michael Pentico was recently delivering mail in Perry, IA, when he heard a faint noise.
As he listened closely, he determined that the alarm clock-like sound was coming from a home on the other side of the road.
Pentico walked toward the residence and smelled smoke.
Realizing the sound was a smoke alarm, the Postal Service employee called 911 and stayed at the location until firefighters arrived.
The residents were not home at the time, but firefighters found materials in the home that were smoldering.
The local fire chief said Pentico’s call likely saved the house from a bigger blaze.
Employees featured in “Heroes” receive letters of commendation through the Postmaster General Heroes’ Program. The nomination form is available on Blue.