The sensitive sense of smell of a school student saved both his own life and an adult’s life.
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The school bus in New Jersey had just started its route. At the first stop, the driver picked up Rocco Arseze, a 4th-grade student. After traveling a few meters, the boy smelled burning rubber. He decided it was best to inform the driver about it.
“Should we get off?” the boy asked. “Yes, of course, I was actually thinking of suggesting that to you,” the driver replied.
As soon as they exited the bus, it immediately caught fire. Within minutes, the vehicle was engulfed in flames. Soon, firefighters and police arrived at the scene. The bus was towed off the road to a safe location.
When Rocco’s mother arrived at the scene of the fire, the policeman said: “This is the calmest child I have ever seen in such a situation.”
Rocco’s mother was not surprised by his son’s reaction. She explained that he has won many awards for participating in racing competitions. “Nothing can faze him,” she added. “I’m glad there were no other children on the bus. They might have panicked. It’s great that my son realized what needed to be done!”
Two weeks later, the fire department posted a photo on their social media page with the following comment: “Thanks to Rocco, no one was injured. We welcome Rocco to our ranks and look forward to having him participate in our training sessions.”