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10-year-old honored for lifesaving during Drowning Impact Awareness Month
Aug. 6, 2009
Contact: Tiffani Nichols, Scottsdale Fire Department, (480) 312-1816
10-year-old honored for lifesaving
efforts to rescue man at resort pool
On July 31, 10-year-old California resident Kelsey Clinger saw a man at the bottom of the pool at the Chaparral Suites Resort, 5001 N. Scottsdale Rd. She yelled for help and then pulled the man to the top of the water. Other guests helped get him to the side of the pool.
The 47-year-old man was breathing and conscious when transported to the hospital. He was released this week to return home to Philadelphia.
On Aug. 8, Scottsdale Fire Department honored Kelsey for her lifesaving efforts during the Drowning Impact Awareness Month Water Safety Day at Eldorado Aquatic Center.
Arizona ranks second in the nation for drownings, and summer months bring increased incidents. So far this year, there have been 12 child fatalities in Maricopa County, including one in Scottsdale. There have been 2 adult deaths in Scottsdale this year. It’s a tragedy that knows no bounds and it is completely preventable.
Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane has proclaimed August as Drowning Impact Awareness month, making this Scottsdale’s sixth year of participating in the campaign with Water Watchers at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
The community is encouraged to show their support and commitment to water safety by wearing a purple ribbon during the month of August. Free purple ribbons can be picked up at any Scottsdale Fire Station, Police District Office, Library, City of Scottsdale Aquatics Center and City Hall.
For more information about Drowning Impact Awareness Month or water safety in Scottsdale, contact Public Education Officer Lori Schmidt at (480) 312-1817 or lschmidt@ScottsdaleAZ.gov.
