The Denver Police Department and The President and CEO of the Daniel’s Fund, Linda Childears, would like to honor the neighborhood heroes who through quick actions, training, and teamwork saved the life of a five- year- old girl. An invitation is extended out to the media to join us on Friday, August 21, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at 101 Monroe Street.
On August 14, 2009, in the early afternoon a “day camp” brought several children to the Aztlan Swimming Pool, located at 4435 Navajo Street.
While swimming in the pool, a five year old girl sank to the bottom. She was swimming with a six- year- old girl from the day camp. When the six- year- old saw the five-year-old at the bottom of the pool, she quickly swam down and pulled her up to the surface. The six- year- old alerted the staff that the five-year- old was “in trouble.”
The first lifeguard to take action was Alaina Larson (20), who rendered first aid by starting rescue breathing. Alaina was then quickly joined by a second lifeguard, Myrisa Garcia (15), who took over the rescue breathing while Alaina began chest compressions. It was at this point that both lifeguards determined that the five- year- old did not have a pulse. While these two lifeguards continued CPR, another lifeguard, Anita Muniz (21), quickly assessed the situation and called 911 detailing the incident to the call taker. Monique remained on the call giving continuous information until emergency personnel arrived.
The lifeguard who was working in the office, Zach Stout (19), learned of the incident and alerted the desk personnel to call 911. Without hesitation, Zach grabbed the automatic defibrillator and ran out to the 5- year- old girl and the other lifeguards performing CPR. Zach stood by prepared to operate the defibrillator if necessary.
The five- year- old was transported to Denver Health Medical Center by ambulance. A Denver Police Detective responded to the hospital where he observed the five- year- old alert and responsive.
This outcome could have been tragic if not for the quick actions of the six- year- old girl and the teamwork and professionalism of all the lifeguards involved.
Officer Vicki Ferrari 04027