Lifeguards save toddler at Point tidal pool

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Two vigilant lifeguards saved a three-year-old girl from drowning at The Point tidal pool on Saturday afternoon, 28 December.

Carlo Klaasen of Life Saving Medical Rescue and Eden Lifesaving District said lifeguard Joy Moses had been patrolling the waters of the tidal pool at about 12:30 when she came across the three-year-old floating face-down in the water.

Klaasen said Moses pulled the child from the water and another lifeguard, Gladlyn Limberg immediately started performing expired air resuscitation.

He said this is a first-aid technique that involves breathing into a person's mouth to provide oxygen when they have stopped breathing but still have a pulse.

He said this technique is also known as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, rescue breathing or the kiss of life.

Klaasen said the child was then taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment by emergency medical services. The child remains in the hospital but is in a stable condition.

Joy Moses. Photo: Carlo Klaasen

Klaasen urged people to keep their eyes on children while out in public at all times, especially while in the water.

He said a drowning can occur when you are distracted by your phone or decide to take a call.

"Be alert. Drowning is silent. If they are having difficulty, there will be no splashing or calling for help. When a child is in the water, they should always be within arm's reach of an adult."

Klaasen added to be safe, swim where lifeguards are on duty. He commended Moses and Limberg for their vigilance and quick action that helped save the little girl's life.

Gladlyn Limberg. Photo: Carlo Klaasen