(Glenniferlake.ca)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Heroic Actions

Quick action of witnesses prevent two youths from drowning

Aug 9, 2021 | 1:50 PM

Some witnesses to a near drowning in Red Deer County last month may be in for some special recognition in the not-too-distant future.

On July 31, at 2:15 p.m., Alberta RCMP say emergency services were dispatched to a report of a near drowning at Glennifer Lake.

The investigation determined that two youths were swimming in the lake when witnesses saw that the youths appeared to be struggling and going under the water. Witnesses jumped in and pulled the youths to safety.

The youths were transported to hospitals in Calgary and Innisfail where they were treated and later released.

“While people are enjoying the hot weather and the outdoor activities our beautiful community provides, it is critical to understand the risk factors involved in some summer activities,” said Staff Sergeant Chris Matechuk, Detachment Commander of Innisfail RCMP, in a press release. “A lake may look calm, but conditions like water temperature, wind, and current can change rapidly. Thankfully, in this case when the swimmers started to struggle, witnesses were able to intervene and they came to the young swimmers’ aid quickly. Their actions prevented an unnecessary tragedy.”

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Staff Sergeant Matechuk commented that he will ensure the heroic actions of the witnesses are recognized by the RCMP. He will also be recommending the witnesses for a St. John’s Life Saver Award.