Published on Monday, 2 May 2022 at 10:06:49 AM
A Hedland lifeguard is being commended for recently saving a young child’s life at the South Hedland Aquatic Centre.
On a hot March day, the South Hedland Aquatic Centre was a refuge for many locals and families looking to cool off.
It took only a few seconds for a child visiting the pool to jump into water that was out of their depth.
A Port Hedland local alerted Kyle Taylor, the lifeguard on duty, to the young child who had submerged underwater.
Kyle responded rapidly and rescued the drowning child, who was unconscious.
The child regained consciousness a few seconds later, was placed on oxygen therapy and taken to hospital by paramedics where they made a full recovery.
Kyle is being credited with saving the young child's life.
Town of Port Hedland CEO Carl Askew said that the Town has approximately 20 lifeguards employed at the Town’s leisure facilities.
“The Town saw over 9,700 visitors to the South Hedland Aquatic Centre over the summer school holidays, and nearly 8,000 visitors in March.
“Emergency situations like this happen so fast, but Kyle’s lifesaving training instantly kicked in - all the hard work and extensive training both in and out of the water has helped save a life.
“The Town is committed to promoting water safety skills and providing water safety education. We are proud that our Aquatic Centres endorse the ‘Watch Around Water’ program to promote awareness and education of parental supervision of children around water.
“It is also a timely reminder to note that the Town offers a range of swimming classes which cater to children and adults of all skill levels.”
Mayor Peter Carter praised the local and lifeguard for acting so fast, playing a pivotal role in saving the young child’s life.
“Kyle did a fantastic job. In a moment that could have ended tragically, his actions and training supported this positive outcome.
“I am pleased that Kyle has been formally recognised with a Royal Life Saving WA Bravery Award nomination and a Hedland Youth Award nomination.”
For more information on the ‘Watch Around Water’ program - www.porthedlandleisure.wa.gov.au/aquatics/aquatic-centres/watch-around-water.aspx
For more information on swimming lessons in Port Hedland - www.porthedlandleisure.wa.gov.au/aquatics/swim-school.aspx
To apply for a lifeguard position at the Town’s leisure facilities - www.porthedland.wa.gov.au/employment/622550/lifeguard-casual-pool
Pictured: Deputy Mayor Tim Turner, Port Hedland Leisure Lifeguard Kyle Taylor, Mayor Peter Carter.
For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Corporate Affairs
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
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