Boy nearly drowns at swim class

2008-02-29 20:41

Johannesburg - A seven-year-old boy was in a serious condition in hospital after nearly drowning during a swimming lesson at a Bedfordview school on Friday, Netcare 911 said.

Spokesperson Nick Dollman said teachers pulled the boy out of the water and started CPR on him when they noticed there was a problem.

Paramedics arrived and took the boy to the nearby Bedford Gardens hospital where he was placed on emergency life support.

The boy was then transported to Johannesburg hospital where he was in a serious condition.

"The boy had low saturation levels," said Dollman.

The boy's parents were aware of the incident and had met the ambulance at Bedford Gardens hospital.

"This is a sad but realistic example of how quickly a young child can get into trouble while in water."

Dollman said competent adult supervision was essential when children were around water.

"When trained first-aiders initiate life-saving techniques immediately after the incident happens, it increases the victim's chances of having a positive outcome," said Dollman.

Johannesburg Hospital was unable to give an update of the boy's condition on Friday afternoon.

- SAPA