As reported by the Legnica police:
A 15-year-old boy was standing on the roof of a building. The structure had been damaged by fire, with burnt beams and holes in the ceiling. Every step could have ended in tragedy. The boy was in deep psychological crisis.
Thanks to the composure of the dispatcher from the Regional Emergency Notification Centre, contact with him was maintained until the emergency services arrived. The situation at the scene was extremely dangerous.
Then a policewoman joined the operation. Showing extraordinary courage, empathy and calm, she established contact with the teenager and gained his trust. Aware of the real danger to her own life, she climbed onto the damaged roof to be with him at the most difficult moment and save the boy.
She did not use force. She used conversation. Presence. Understanding.
That was enough.
The boy abandoned his intention. Assisted by the policewoman and a firefighter, he safely climbed down and was handed over to a medical rescue team.
The officers conclude:
This intervention shows what police service is truly about: responsibility, empathy and the readiness to save a life even when one’s own life is at risk.
And they add:
📌 Let us also remember the enormous role played by adult vigilance. A sudden change in a child’s behaviour, withdrawal, isolating themselves from peers, sadness, irritability or becoming closed off are signals that must not be ignored. In such situations, a red warning light should come on. Let us not wait for the problem to deepen; let us respond immediately, talk, seek help from specialists and use the support available.
Let us remember: if we see that someone is struggling with a crisis, let us not remain indifferent. One conversation can save a life.
📞 Crisis helpline numbers:
▪ 116 111 – Child and Youth Helpline (24/7)
▪ 800 70 2222 – Support Centre (24/7)
▪ 116 123 – Adult Helpline
▪ 112 – in cases of immediate danger to life.