Toddlers Rescued After Near-Drowning in Laval Backyard Pool
Two toddlers in Laval are recovering after a frightening near-drowning incident that has renewed warnings about backyard pool safety. The boys, both two years old, were found underwater for at least a minute before being rescued by neighbours who immediately began CPR.
(Original news report: 👉 Toddlers rescued from Laval pool
How the Incident Unfolded
According to Laval police, it remains unclear how the boys entered the backyard pool. Early reports suggest they may have climbed a ladder that led into the pool area.
Neighbour Watson Jules said he ran over as soon as he heard screams from next door.
“The boys were already on the grass. They weren’t moving or breathing. That’s when my sister and I started CPR,” Jules told CBC News.
Thanks to their quick actions, both children regained some signs of life before paramedics arrived.
Immediate CPR Made the Difference
Ambulances arrived shortly after and transported the boys to Sainte-Justine Hospital in Montreal, where they were listed in stable condition. Laval police Sgt. Simon Charette reported that doctors were closely monitoring the toddlers for potential complications.
“We cannot say if there is, or if there is going to be, any damage on those kids,” Charette said. “Doctors are going to do more tests in the next day or two and make sure everything is ok.”
This reinforces a critical lesson: CPR performed within minutes can dramatically improve survival and reduce long-term harm, especially in drowning cases where oxygen deprivation happens quickly.
Pool Safety Remains a Growing Concern
Investigators believe the toddlers may have climbed a ladder or other object to access the pool. Police are urging all parents and pool owners to take extra steps to secure their swimming areas.
Charette emphasized:
“[Parents should] make sure there is nothing around or near the pool that they could climb to go inside.”
Raynald Hawkins of the Quebec Lifesaving Society echoed this warning, reminding families with backyard pools to follow established water-safety guidelines carefully.
“This is why it is so important that we follow our water safety tips,” Hawkins said.
Why CPR Training Matters
Drowning incidents can escalate in seconds, and outcomes often depend on how quickly CPR begins. When performed immediately, CPR can restore blood flow, protect the brain, and dramatically increase the chance of survival while waiting for emergency responders.
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or anyone who spends time around water, learning CPR is one of the most valuable skills you can have.
👉 Explore certified CPR and AED training options here: https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Learn How to Respond in an Emergency
Build confidence and learn life-saving skills by enrolling in a certified first aid or CPR course. Knowing what to do—especially in the first critical minutes—can save a life.
Additional Resources
Serving Calgary and the surrounding areas the lowest priced, highest quality OH&S approved first aid training, CPR and food safety courses for over 15 years!
Support locally-owned and Canadian-operated businesses, with no partnerships or links with American corporations.