The duo was off duty when they noticed that a van had collided with the pillar of a bridge near Booysens, Johannesburg.

They arrived at the scene to find five people inside the burning van. Despite the flames, the police officers were able to open the door and rescue the occupants, which included a six-year-old boy.

Constable A.D. McLean and student Constable J.G. Michael will be awarded with SAPS Silver Cross Bravery medals, SAPS added.

McLean and Michael responded to a call about a house on fire in Elsies River, in the Western Cape.

The police officers entered the burning house and saved a four-year-old girl from the blaze. The girl had to hospitalised and underwent two skin graft operations.

The girl's mother died as a result of the fire. Michael also sustained burns to his hands.

Bheki Cele, praised the police officers for their valiant acts.

"We commend such a gallant action they have demonstrated to the community. We are proud to have people of their calibre within our organisation. Their action signifies good ambassadorship that represents the police service of this country," he said.