Daniel Fennessy helps emergency crews save his little sister

An 8 year old Saugus boy is being hailed as a hero, after he helped emergency crews respond to a life threatening emergency.

 

In late May, Daniel’s seventeen month old baby sister fell into a swimming pool. Rather than panic, Daniel called 911 and, according to the LA County Sheriff’s Department, he calmly gave critical information to the dispatcher, who was then able to guide emergency crews to the home.

 

And once Daniel’s sister was in the ambulance, Sheriff’s deputies ran a traffic break from Saugus to the hospital, where her life was saved by medical personnel.

 

Daniel’s calm actions on that day are credited as a major reason his sister is alive.

 

So on Tuesday night, the responding Fire and Sheriff’s Department officers, along with Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Captain Anthony La Berge presented Daniel with the Star Scroll, one of the highest honors given by the Sheriff to individuals or organizations outside the Department for heroic acts. The scroll was given on behalf of Sheriff Leroy Baca.

 

In addition, both the City Council and the LA County Fire Department made their own presentations to Daniel.

 

[view:node_ad=5]The incident serves as a sober reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike, especially around pools. Often times, a few easy precautions can help to keep children safe around all bodies of water. First, designate an adult to act as a lifeguard. Several adults can take turns, however when the “lifeguard” is on duty, he or she should be at the pool area and keep a watchful eye. It is also helpful to have the “lifeguard” wear a distinguishable necklace or bracelet.

 

Pool gates should always be checked to ensure that they are working properly. Also, be aware of other dangers that involve pools. The fact that a pool has a cover on it does not mean that a child cannot drown in it. In fact, it can be even more dangerous. And empty pools can collect rainwater, which can be enough for a child to drown in.