The National Sea Rescue Institute has commended two Samaritans who rushed to the rescue of a young boy who had disappeared underwater while swimming in the Kleinmond Lagoon.
NSRI Kleinmond medics and rescue swimmers as well as Overstrand Fire and Rescue Services, Kleinmond Police and WC Government Health EMS officials rushed to the scene on Thursday 30 November at approximately 14:15 after Overstrand Municipality alerted them to the drowning in progress at the popular swimming spot.
Michael Markovina, NSRI Kleinmond coxswain, reported that on their arrival they found a male bystander had rescued the young boy from underwater and had taken him ashore. The man was later identified as Jan Coetzee.
Sunelle Loubser, another bystander, then jumped into action and initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with the help of other bystanders.
“They had restored the patient’s pulse, which was feint and restored spontaneous breathing,” Markovina reported. “NSRI medics and Fire Services continued with medical treatment and the EMS paramedics arrived to assist.”
Gradually the child’s condition improved during ongoing medical treatment, and he was transported by EMS ambulance in a serious but stable condition to hospital, where doctors and nurses continued their medical care. The child has since made a full recovery.
“The bystander Good Samaritans are commended for their efforts that contributed to the child’s life being saved,” said Markovina.
In light of this incident and a number of others involving children along the South African coastline, the NSRI made an urgent appeal for parents to always ensure that there is responsible adult supervision when children swim or play in the water. It also appealed to the public always to put safety first.
“Bathers, hikers, sailors, paddlers, fishermen and boaters on coastal waters and on inland waters are urged to have safety top-of-mind,” said NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon.
“Beach bathers, we are appealing to you and your families, to swim only at beaches protected by lifeguards. Swim between the safer swimming areas posted by lifeguards.
“We are requesting, with our hearts in our throats, that parents and children have responsible adult supervision for children when they are in and around water, that they not be distracted and watch over the children,” said Lambinon.
He said the NSRI, lifeguards, police and the emergency services are on high alert.