Sean Williams saw a woman unconscious inside a burning home. He didn't hesitate before running to help

Sean Williams was with his grandmother in the rural South Australian town of Tailem Bend on February 22 when he saw thick clouds of smoke coming from a nearby home.

The pair followed the smoke until they found a house engulfed by flames, police recalled.

The then 16-year-old saw a woman lying motionless inside the front door and immediately rushed to help.

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He quickly dragged her to safety and let his grandmother perform CPR while he tried to extinguish the fire.

"I wasn't scared. I just did what I felt was right. Someone needed me and I hoped I could help them," Williams said.

"I never thought of myself as a hero or anything. I just did what everyone should do for members of their community.

"I am just glad she is OK, and I hope she is doing well."

His mother, Michelle, said he wouldn't hesitate to do the same thing again for someone else.

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"Sean has always been a super kind boy that puts others first," she said.

"We have always taught him that kindness and compassion cannot be bought and can turn someone's day around. In this case, it saved a life."

Now 17 years old, Williams was today awarded as the City of Adelaide Lions Club and South Australia Police 2024 Citizen of the Year.

"He exhibits qualities we find in our own officers, including courage and initiative," Deputy Commissioner of Police Linda Williams said.

"Without his intervention, the woman may have perished in the fire."