Midlands EMS crews were dispatched to the Lidgetton area, just outside of Howick, following reports of a drowning incident involving a child.
On arrival at the scene, crews found that a 7-year-old child had already been removed from the water. Despite all efforts, the child showed no signs of life and was tragically declared deceased.
Authorities were in attendance.
Midlands EMS would like to urge the public, parents, caregivers, schools, and adults in general to exercise extreme caution around open bodies of water such as dams, rivers, and pools. Both children and adults are at risk, and no one should swim or be near water without proper supervision or assistance nearby. Children should never be left unattended, even for a short moment, and adults should avoid swimming alone or under unsafe conditions. Where possible, swimming should only take place in designated areas with trained supervision and appropriate safety measures in place. Increased awareness and vigilance can help prevent tragic incidents like this from occurring.
Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and community affected by this heartbreaking incident.