A tragedy was averted over the weekend when lifeguards and patrons revived a two-year-old boy who had passed out in the 50m swimming pool of the Whitlam Leisure Centre, pictured above.
“Those who leapt into action and revived the child deserve the community’s thanks and praise for their rapid and appropriate reaction,” says Craig Lambeth, the Liverpool Council manager of community recreation.
“A life was saved on Sunday and a family tragedy was averted.
“It clearly demonstrates the benefits of good training and proper procedures.
“Fortunately, the child is now in a stable condition and is recovering well,” Mr Lambeth said.
It is also a timely reminder to all families of the need to be extra vigilant when young children are in the water, and the value of learning basic CPR techniques.
“In Australia, drowning is the third leading causes of death in children. According to the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia, 29 children lost their lives to drowning last year,’’ he said.
“Children should never be left unsupervised while playing in and around water, even if they know how to swim.
“This is especially true for children under the age of five. It is important to always maintain constant and direct supervision of children whenever they are near water.
“All children should also learn swimming and survival skills,’’ Mr Lambeth said.
“Last week, Liverpool City Council launched its Float to Survive initiative. Float to Survive provides four-weeks of free swimming lessons for residents who are first-time swimmers, either at Whitlam Leisure Centre or at the Michael Wenden Aquatic Centre.
“It’s a vital skill in Australia where there are so many places to swim. Liverpool Council recognises this, and that’s why we want to do all we can to ensure families have a safe summer swimming season,” he said.
