Off-Duty Paramedics and Lifeguards Save 5-Year-Old Boy From Drowning at Langford Pool

A family day at the pool turned into a life-and-death emergency at the YMCA/YWCA in Langford when lifeguards pulled an unconscious five-year-old boy from the water. What followed was a dramatic rescue involving quick action, teamwork, and critical CPR skills that ultimately saved the child’s life.
This story was first reported by CBC News, and you can read the original article here:
➡️ Off-duty paramedics, lifeguards save 5-year-old boy from drowning in pool

A Frightening Moment in the Water

The pool was busy that Sunday when a lifeguard’s sharp whistle signaled immediate danger. Swimmers were instructed to clear the water as staff rushed to help a young boy who had slipped beneath the surface unnoticed.

Lifeguards quickly pulled the child from the pool and began CPR on the deck. He was unresponsive and showing signs of cardiac arrest.

Off-Duty Paramedics in the Right Place at the Right Time

Among the witnesses were off-duty paramedics Kyle Klint and Karlie Wilson, who were enjoying the afternoon with their four-year-old twin boys. Klint was standing at the top of the waterslide when he heard the whistle and saw lifeguards carrying the unconscious boy out of the water.

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the couple stepped in to help. Wilson took over chest compressions while Klint maintained the child’s airway and assisted with ventilations.

Lifeguard rescuing an unconscious swimmer with a float in a pool.
Lifeguard simulates a rescue — similar to the Langford YMCA/YWCA pool incident that saved a young boy’s life.

“We followed our training and did what we’re supposed to,” Klint told CBC. “Anytime you deal with kids, it becomes a lot more tense.”

Supporting a Distraught Mother

As lifeguards and paramedics worked urgently, the boy’s mother stood by in shock. Klint explained that part of their role was also calming and reassuring both the mother and nearby bystanders — including their own children, who were shaken by the scene.

A Life Saved in Minutes

After three to four minutes of CPR, the boy began breathing on his own. By the time the ambulance arrived, he was awake and responsive — an incredibly positive outcome considering how quickly drowning can become fatal.

He was transported to the hospital for further care.

A Reminder About Water Safety

Klint emphasized the importance of strong supervision around water. Children who are not confident swimmers should always wear life jackets, even in supervised pools. He added that parents should learn CPR so they’re ready to act if the unexpected happens.

Why CPR Training Matters

This rescue is a powerful reminder that emergencies can unfold in seconds. The difference between life and death often comes down to whether someone nearby knows how to perform CPR.

If you want to be prepared to protect your family or assist others in the community, consider enrolling in certified CPR and AED training.
👉 Learn more here: https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/

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Additional resources on CPR and sudden cardiac arrest:

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