Children Rescue 11 Year Old Swimmer

(HILLIER, ON) – On the 11th of August, 2016 at approximately 14:30 hours, a concerned citizen called 911 in regards to an 11 year old that was unconscious but breathing after a misadventure in the waters of Lake Ontario. The Prince Edward County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Prince Edward County Fire Department (FIRE) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived at the scene and the boy was treated by EMS. He was taken to Trenton Memorial Hospital (TMH) for further assessment. He was later transported to Kingston General Hospital (KGH). He is expected to make a full recovery.

An independent witness observed the boy playing with some kids approximately 40 feet from the shore in the lake when the incident occurred. He was carried to shore by the children and a nearby adult placed the boy into the recovery position while they waited for medical assistance.

The OPP encourage all Ontarians and those visiting from elsewhere to take personal responsibility for ensuring water safety for themselves and their children. Never leave a child without supervision when they are on or near the water – even if they are wearing an approved personal flotation device. It is important for everyone to be aware of proper boating and swimming practices. If you are a poor swimmer or a non-swimmer always wear a PFD while in, or around water.

You can learn more about staying safe in and around water by visiting the Red Cross and Transport Canada websites or other similar organizations in your area for information and assistance:

TRANSPORT CANADA: http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/debs-obs-equipment-lifejackets-information-1324.htm

RED CROSS: http://www.redcross.ca/what-we-do/swimming-and-water-safety/swimming,-boating-and-water-safety-tips/lifejackets-and-pfds

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