Swimming scare for 11-year-old

An 11-year-old unconscious, but breathing, after a misadventure in the waters of Lake Ontario, is expected to make a full recovery.

On Thursday, Aug. 11 at approximately 2:30 p.m. a concerned citizen called 911.

“An independent witness observed the boy playing with some kids approximately 40 feet from the shore in the lake when the incident occurred,” said Connor Durkin, PEC OPP Safety Officer. “He was carried to shore by the children and a nearby adult placed the boy into the recovery position while they waited for medical assistance.”

The Prince Edward County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police, Prince Edward County Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services arrived at the scene.
The boy was treated by EMS and taken to Trenton Memorial Hospital for further assessment. He was later transported to Kingston General Hospital.

“The OPP encourage all Ontarians and those visiting from elsewhere to take personal responsibility for ensuring water safety for themselves and their children,” said Durkin. “Never leave a child without supervision when they are on or near the water – even if they are wearing an approved personal flotation device. It is important for everyone to be aware of proper boating and swimming practices. If you are a poor swimmer or a non-swimmer always wear a PFD while in, or around water.”