An audio recording of Monday’s rescue of two firefighters has been posted on the Internet, giving insight into the dramatic operation that brought the pair to safety.

The audio begins with communications between members of Toronto Fire Services as they battle the fire that destroyed a heritage building at the corner of Yonge and Gould Sts.

At about the 13 minute mark, a distinct cry of “mayday, mayday, mayday,” is heard through deep, laboured breathing, followed by what appears to be a call for a paramedic.

The location of the distress call is then identified as 333 Yonge St., the address of the neighbouring HMV building.

Another mayday call is heard just after 15 minutes, indicating a second firefighter has fallen through the roof.

The remainder of the tape details how both men were plucked from the building which was engulfed in smoke and flames. One firefighter suffered smoke inhalation and the other sustained a back injury.

Fire Chief Bill Stewart described the situation as a “very intense time,” and “very horrific” for the firefighters at the time.

Three firefighters were taken to hospital. All three have since been released.