28/08/2025

Following a heroic rescue, three team members at Sidmouth Swimming Pool received an Everyday Heroes award for their involvement in saving the life of a customer.

A normal early morning swim at Sidmouth Swimming Pool turned into a lifesaving mission when lifeguards sprang into action to rescue a swimmer in distress. At approximately 7:00am on 5th August, a swimmer was observed in difficultly by vigilant lifeguards on duty. The lifeguards immediately activated the facility’s emergency action plan. Within seconds, the swimmer was removed from the pool and assessed on poolside, where it was determined that they were not breathing and had no pulse.

Lifeguards immediately began CPR and had the defibrillator (AED) at the ready. After just a few minutes of continuous CPR, the individual regained a pulse just prior to the arrival of the ambulance. The customer was transported to the RD&E, where they remained for a few days before being released in a stable condition.

Steve Reid, Manager at Sidmouth Swimming Pool, said: “This incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of training, preparation, and teamwork. Our lifeguards undergo rigorous certification and emergency response training to ensure they’re ready for moments like this. Everyone at LED Community Leisure is incredibly proud of their professionalism and swift action that ultimately saved a life.”

The customer has since expressed deep gratitude to the lifeguard team. A huge well done to Skye Howlett, Tawny Day and Joe McKinney for their quick thinking and putting their training to great use to help save a life!

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