BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - A businessman, who operates a bar at the Strip in Frigate Bay, is being commended for his selflessness in assisting in saving the life of an individual who almost drowned yesterday (Jun. 7).
Initial reports reaching SKNVibes suggested that three teenagers took a boat and went out to sea and had encountered some difficulties. However, a police press release issued today explained that sometime before midday yesterday “a father and his two daughters, ages 11 and 15, were kayaking when the kayak overturned...”
The release further explained that the older of the two children and the father held on to the kayak and swam ashore but the young sibling, “who could not swim, drifter further out to sea beyond reach”.
The incident was reportedly observed by Roland Carey of Kathy’s Bar and Grill and his reaction involved taking a dingy and effectively executing the rescue of the drowning child.
“The child was not breathing when they returned to the shore. Mr. Carey administered CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) to the lifeless child and managed to resuscitate her. Emergency Medical Service (EMS) were called to the scene where other lifesaving measures were administered to the child who was transported to the Joseph N. France Hospital where she is warded and in stable condition.”
Carey’s commendation comes from the Commissioner of Police Celvin ‘CG’ Walwyn who, according to the police communique, has recommended that residents consider taking CPR courses with the Red Cross Society.
He however issued a word of caution to parents to ensure that their children are supervised when visiting the Federation’s beaches.
“The Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force encourages residents to take this act of bravery and humanity as an example for all to follow in assisting others should history repeat itself. As a parent, Commissioner Walwyn wishes to remind all guardians and parents that summer is fast approaching and our children will be visiting our beautiful beaches. Please ensure that the children know how to swim, or are supervised by a person, who knows how to swim.”
