BATAVIA – The swift actions of four lifeguards at Harold Hall Quarry Beach in Batavia Wednesday saved a boy's life, officials said.
The lifeguards were present during the boy’s swimming test at about 2:30 p.m Wednesday at the beach when he went underwater, according to a Batavia Fire Department news release.
Staff immediately removed the boy from the water and rendered first aid, the release states.
The Batavia Fire Department arrived at 2:37 p.m. for a report of a possible drowning, according to the release. Batavia fire and police personnel instead found the boy out of the water, conscious and breathing while being treated by pool staff.
The boy was treated and taken to Delnor Community Hospital in Geneva, but his exact condition was not immediately available late Wednesday afternoon.
“I’m really proud of the heroic actions that the Quarry lifeguards took today,” said Allison Niemela, executive director of the Batavia Park District, which includes the beach. “The lifeguards have been put on a series of safety trainings, and today they pulled through with flying colors in an effort to save the child’s life.”
It is standard procedure for the park district to call 911 as soon as a situation that might involve a drowning is unfolding, Niemela said.
The park district’s lifeguards are typically a blend of high school and college-aged students who are put through several training sessions, she said.
The Batavia Park Board at its next meeting Tuesday plans to honor the four lifeguards involved with saving the child, Niemela said. The park board meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Batavia Park District Civic Center, 327 W. Wilson St., Batavia.