Amanda Pevey
Photo Credit- Prattville Fire Department
During last night’s Prattville City Council meeting, Battalion Chief Jared Maners commended 13-year-old Ryder Piper for his quick thinking and courageous actions that helped prevent further danger to his family and their neighbors.
On November 3, 2025, Ryder was at home with his family when a fire broke out in the kitchen of their apartment. Acting swiftly, he grabbed a fire extinguisher and was able to suppress the rapidly growing flames while his family called 911. When Prattville Fire and Rescue Engine 3 and Rescue 23 arrived, they found the fire already extinguished thanks to Ryder’s decisive efforts. Because of his calm response and selfless actions, the damage was contained to a single room, preventing the loss of the entire apartment.
“Great job, Ryder! I am very proud of you, and hopefully in about five years we will have another employee here with the fire department,” said Chief Josh Bingham.
“That is amazing, to see someone his age fully understands what is happening and act so quickly to put it all together. Great work, Ryder,” added Mayor Bill Gillespie.
