Aarschot (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A 22-year-old man was resuscitated at the newly opened swimming pond in Schoonhoven Park, Aarschot, prompting swift emergency response on site.
The man had lost consciousness after getting into problems in the swimming pond. The on-scene rescuers began resuscitation right away. In critical condition, he was brought to the hospital.
The new swimming pond in Aarschot, Belgium, was crowded because of the nice weather. According to Mayor Gwendolyn Rutten (Open VLD), two swimmers had a bad afternoon.
“Two adults got into trouble in the water. One without much harm, but the other person had to be resuscitated. Fortunately that was successful, although the situation remains precarious.”
According to the mayor, everyone responded alertly.
“Rescuers, bystanders, employees did what had to be done. There was an AED device on site and the ambulance was also there quickly. The message is clear: always be careful, even when there are rescuers present.”
In critical condition, the young man was transported to Leuven’s Gasthuisberg Hospital. For the remainder of the evening, the swimming pond will be closed.
What safety measures could prevent future incidents at the swimming pond?
Make sure that designated adults or professional lifeguards are always watching swimmers, especially those who are young or inexperienced, so they can react quickly if someone slips into difficulty.
To stop unauthorized or unintentional entry, especially by kids, erect fence or obstacles with self-closing, self-latching gates around the pond.
To enable prompt rescue operations, outfit the area with life-saving equipment including reaching poles, life rings, and first-aid kits that are positioned in convenient areas.
Make certain that lifeguards, employees, and regular guests receive regular training in basic first aid and CPR so they can respond quickly to situations.
Post and uphold explicit safety regulations, such as the prohibitions against swimming alone, diving in shallow water, rough play, and swimming in inclement weather.
