ROCKWALL, TX (June 5, 2014) Eight-year-old Emma Santoro of Rockwall, whose quick thinking and bravery helped save the life her 18-month-old-brother, was recently presented the Rockwall Fire Department’s Civilian Medal of Honor Life Saving Award.
The second grader was recognized in a ceremony at Nebbie Williams Elementary School, and later awarded the medal during a meeting of the Rockwall City Council.
“Emma demonstrated extraordinary courage and composure when her youngest brother fell into the family swimming pool,” explained Ariana Hargrove, Rockwall Fire Marshal.
Emma and her brothers – Noah, 6, and Ethan, 18 months – were at home with a babysitter on June 1. They were playing outside when the babysitter stepped inside momentarily. During that brief time, Ethan wandered over to the pool and fell in. Emma heard the splash, instructed Noah to go get the babysitter and ran over to find Ethan face down in the pool. She immediately jumped in to save him.
“The outcome of this situation could have been very tragic had Emma’s parents not taking the time to teach Emma swimming safety and ensured she knew how to swim,” said Hargrove. “Despite her young age, Emma displayed true bravery by taking action in a life-threatening situation that saved the life of her brother.”
With swim season upon us, the Rockwall Fire Department offers the following safety tips:
- Never leave a child alone in or near a swimming pool, even just to answer the phone.
- Learn first aid and CPR – especially infant CPR.
- Teach every child how to swim. Get professional training, but never rely solely on the swimming lessons to protect a child from drowning.
- Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm’s reach to provide active supervision. Avoid distractions of any kind. Small children can drown in as little as one inch of water.
- Learn more at www.safekids.org.
By Dawn Redig, Blue Ribbon News.
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