Another life-saving event occurred this summer as vacationers contended with challenging ocean conditions. Two lifeguards at Silver Beach, Volusia County, Florida, are credited with saving a young child’s life on July 30.
Lifeguard Dempsey Manhart was about to take his lunch break when the child’s family urgently called for help, as reported by FOX 35 Orlando. The child was unconscious, held by a family member. Manhart assisted in bringing the child from the water. Co-lifeguard Mackenzie Malone quickly joined him and checked the child’s pulse. The lifeguards commenced CPR immediately.
Mackenzie Malone, now in her fourth summer as a lifeguard, stated, “We’re always expecting anything. We’re always prepared.” This was her first time saving a child from drowning. She noted that as soon as she saw the situation, she knew it was serious.
The child began breathing on his own after the lifeguards’ interventions. Malone later expressed gratitude, saying their training proved effective and brought positive results. The child is now able to go home with his family.
“Heroes!! I am grateful to learn just how well-trained beach lifeguards are,” wrote a Facebook user.
Volusia County is situated about 50 miles northeast of Orlando. The successful rescue serves as a poignant reminder for beachgoers to remain near lifeguard towers where trained personnel can provide immediate assistance during emergencies.
Shortly before this event, another child was rescued by Ryder Williams, a 16-year-old lifeguard, in Santa Cruz, California. Williams courageously navigated strong waves to save a 10-year-old boy from the ocean. President Donald J. Trump invited the teenage lifeguard to the White House to honor his bravery.
Fox News Digital previously highlighted that Los Angeles County lifeguards conducted nearly 2,000 ocean rescues in a single weekend under hazardous conditions. Officials suggest speaking with lifeguards about ocean conditions before entering the water.
The National Weather Service advises swimmers caught in rip currents not to fight the current. Instead, they should swim parallel to the shore, then angle back in. If unable to escape, they should float or tread water and signal for help.