St. Cloud, Minn. – On Tuesday evening, a two‑year‑old boy was rescued from a residential pool on Settlers Court, off Old Canoe Creek Road, after a 911 call reported a possible drowning. Police and fire‑rescue personnel arrived at approximately 7:45 p.m. and immediately began life‑saving measures.
Rapid response saves a life
The St. Cloud Police Department spokesperson told WESH 2 News that dispatchers stayed on the line with the family, delivering CPR instructions while fire‑rescue paramedics rushed to the scene. “Our 911 dispatchers gave CPR instructions to the family until our Fire Rescue Paramedics arrived to continue care, and we then coordinated with AirCare for transport to a pediatric trauma center,” the spokesperson said.
Paramedics performed advanced life‑support measures on site before the child was placed on a stretcher and loaded onto an AirCare helicopter. The aircraft lifted the child to a nearby pediatric trauma center, where doctors continued treatment.
Emphasizing the ABCs of swimming safety
Following the rescue, the police department reminded residents of the “ABC” fundamentals of swimming safety: Adult supervision, Barriers to bodies of water, and Classes for kids or CPR training for adults. The department urged parents to never leave children unattended near water, to install proper fencing or pool covers, and to consider swimming lessons or CPR certification for all caregivers.
“Every family can take simple steps to protect their children from water‑related accidents,” the spokesperson added. “These ABCs are proven ways to reduce the risk of drowning, which remains a leading cause of accidental death among young children nationwide.”
Community response and resources
Local churches, community groups, and the St. Cloud Red Cross have offered free CPR classes and swimming lessons in the coming weeks. Parents are encouraged to sign up early, as classes fill quickly.
For families seeking additional guidance, the Minnesota Department of Health provides resources on water safety, including printable checklists and instructional videos. The department’s website also lists certified CPR instructors throughout the state.
What to do if a drowning occurs
Officials reiterated the critical steps to take if a child is found in water:
- Call 911 immediately. Provide clear location details.
- Begin CPR if the child is not breathing. Follow dispatcher instructions.
- Do not leave the child unattended. Keep a hand on the child’s head and shoulders while waiting for responders.
These actions can dramatically improve survival odds, especially for young children whose bodies are more vulnerable to oxygen deprivation.
Looking ahead
The St. Cloud Police Department plans to host a community safety forum next month, focusing on water safety, fire prevention, and emergency preparedness. Residents are invited to attend and ask questions of local first‑responders and health professionals.
While the outcome for the rescued child is still being monitored, the swift actions of the 911 dispatchers, fire‑rescue paramedics, and AirCare crew exemplify the dedication of Minnesota’s emergency services to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
