Underwriters Laboratories honors local heroes and provides safety awareness information at annual Chicago White Sox event

UL is privileged to team with the Chicago White Sox in hosting this special night and looks forward to thanking all of the brave service men and women for their commitment to public safety, said Chris Hasbrook, vice president and general manager of UL's global building materials and life safety & security industries. As a global leader in fire safety and security for more than 115 years, UL is proud to have the opportunity to recognize heroes such as Police Sgt. O'Malley and firefighter Joseph Martinelli for the work they do in the line of duty every day. It also gives us the chance to raise awareness in the local community about important life safety issues.



UL has a long history of conducting leading fire research; working with first responder organizations from testing and certification of the equipment they use, to providing training courses for firefighters and providing safety education to consumers. The organization will be on hand before and during the game with educational booths set up inside and outside the stadium where Sox fans can get important fire and personal safety literature. Additionally, the first 20,000 fans at the stadium will receive a customized UL - White Sox 3-ring binder depicting White Sox baseball and containing useful fire and personal safety tips for the family. Radio Disney will broadcast live from the game, promoting an I Am Safety Smart theme.



During a pregame ceremony, Chicago Fire Department Commissioner Robert Huff will recognize firefighter Joseph Martinelli with an award in honor of his heroic rescue at a southwest Chicago residential building in March 2009. Under threatening and dangerous fire conditions, Martinelli performed his duties without hesitation saving a civilian life though he himself sustained second degree burns to his face.



Sergeant Michael G. O'Malley will be recognized by Chicago Police Commander Eric Carter with an award in honor of his actions in apprehending a suspect while coming under fire. Though being fired upon, O'Malley maintained his composure and demonstrated his courage and devotion to duty ultimately apprehending the offender.



Martinelli and O'Malley will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the White Sox take on the Minnesota Twins. The game begins at 7:10 p.m. UL will make donations to the Chicago Fire Department Gold Badge Society in honor of firefighter Martinelli and to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation in honor of Sergeant O'Malley. Both charities are dedicated to honoring Chicago's fallen heroes and providing support and assistance to their families.