On September 10, 1999, Wesley Bateman rescued a man from a burning van following a collision with another vehicle near Waubaushene, Ontario. The impact had killed the two occupants of the out-of-control car and set fire to the van, leaving its unconscious driver slumped against the steering wheel, with flames spreading on the floor and the console. Struggling in vain with the door, Mr. Bateman climbed onto the roof and, with the help of others, succeeded in bending the door frame enough to gain access to the driver. With the intensifying fire burning his face and arm, Mr. Bateman reached inside and persevered until he was able to pull the severely injured driver partially out. Others then helped complete the rescue and carry the man a safe distance away moments before fire destroyed the vehicle.