Firefighter hailed hero after giving his oxygen mask to elderly woman

A Washington, D.C. firefighter has been labeled a hero for his selfless act in helping to save an elderly woman.

CBS News reports that on Thursday, firefighters were called to a burning residential building where they found 65-year-old Phyllis Terrell unable to leave her smoke-filled 3rd floor window.

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Two crew members raced inside while another, Danny Lovato, went up a ladderplaced against the building.

When Lovato reached her, he saw the woman could no longer breathe in the smoke so he gave her his oxygen mask and handed the air tank to his coworkers who were now in the apartment.

He then proceeded to make his way down through the toxic air, and the other men escorted the woman out.

Lovato and Terrell were both hospitalized. Terrell's condition was more serious but has improved.

She has reportedly expressed her gratitude for his bravery and sacrifice.

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