8-year-old honored by local first responders for heroic 911 call

EL PASO CO., Colo. (KRDO) -- Second-grade students at Kings Elementary School in Security-Widefield got a special surprise Tuesday as local law enforcement and fire department personnel held a surprise meet and greet to teach the kids the importance of calling 911.

But an even bigger surprise awaited 8-year-old Isabella Montano, who was called out from the crowd of her classmates and recognized for her heroic actions.

Her actions happened on a day in January when she called 911, alerting the dispatcher that her mother was having a medical emergency.

“She took care of me when I was really at my worst and needed help,” Christina Montano, Isabella’s mother, told KRDO.

Montano explains that Isabella did not just call 911 once asking for help, but twice that day, ensuring she made it to the hospital and got the treatment she needed.

The whole time Isabella was on the phone with the dispatcher, she answered every question while remaining calm and collected.

“I saw my mom having a hard time breathing so I knew I had to call 911,” Isabella said.

Isabella explains she knew exactly what to do from watching her favorite TV show: '911'. She says it's her favorite show because it shows her how first responders do this: “to be a good community helper,” Isabella says.

On Monday that came back full circle for Isabella, who got a special invitation to tour the 911 El Paso/Teller Dispatch Center later this week.

But Isabella tells KRDO that what she is most looking forward to is getting a special ride to school by local firefighters in one of the fire department's engines on Monday.

“I can’t wait to wear a helmet," she said with a big grin.