Volusia Deputies Revive Swimmer in New Smyrna Beach, FL

A Saturday morning swim quickly turned into a critical struggle for survival in the Atlantic waters. Alert citizens standing on the shore realized a swimmer was in deep distress out in the ocean waves. They immediately took action by looking for help and flagging down nearby law enforcement officers. Their fast response set off a sequence of rapid actions that ultimately made the difference between life and death on the sand.

Critical Emergency at New Smyrna Beach

The incident occurred at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, at New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Volusia Sheriff's Office deputies were patrolling nearby when beachgoers signaled that a 68-year-old woman was in distress. Deputy Gourley located the victim floating face down in the water. With the assistance of a beachgoer, he pulled her completely out of the ocean and onto the shore.

Deputies Perform Lifesaving CPR

The situation looked grim as the woman was entirely unresponsive and lacked a pulse. Deputy Gourley and Deputy Manhart instantly initiated CPR to restore her breathing. Police bodycam footage captured the intense moments as the deputies performed emergency medical rescue protocols on the sand. After a few tense moments of continuous effort, a deputy announced that she was breathing. The woman exhaled loudly and regained consciousness right there on the shoreline.

Beach Safety Continues Care

Personnel from Beach Safety arrived at the scene shortly after to take over the life-saving measures. The victim was subsequently transported to the hospital in stable condition. The Volusia Sheriff Office later confirmed that life-saving awards are forthcoming for the deputies involved to recognize their actions during the call.

Honor the Dedication of Our First Responders

This successful rescue highlights the vital public safety partnership between alert citizens and dedicated law enforcement officers. When emergencies strike on the coast, our deputies rely on their extensive training to move from regular patrols directly into intense, life-saving medical responses. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to perform emergency CPR?

To perform emergency CPR, place both hands in the center of the chest and push down hard and fast at a rate of 100 to 120 beats per minute. Allow the chest to fully rise between each compression to keep blood flowing to vital organs.

2. How long does CPR take?

CPR continues until the victim revives, an automated external defibrillator becomes available, or advanced medical personnel arrive to take over care. First responders undergo extensive physical training to maintain steady chest compressions during these prolonged and exhausting life-saving operations.

3. How do police rescue drowning swimmers?

Officers swim out to secure the distressed individual, keep their head above water, and bring them safely back to shore. Once on dry land, first responders evaluate the victim for a pulse and immediately begin lifesaving medical treatment if needed.

4. What training do deputies have for water safety?

Deputies receive foundational training in basic water safety, physical fitness, rescue awareness, and emergency medical protocols like CPR. This comprehensive preparation allows law enforcement personnel to respond effectively when citizens report an active emergency along the coastline or local waterways.

5. How can alert beachgoers assist first responders?

Bystanders assist first responders by carefully scanning the water, noticing early signs of swimmer fatigue, and immediately calling emergency services. Providing clear descriptions of the victim's location allows arriving rescue personnel to accurately spot and reach individuals in distress.

Sources:

• Story and Video Source: Volusia Sheriff's Office

• Additional Reporting: Police Rescue 'Unresponsive' 68-Year-Old Woman Found Floating Face Down in Ocean at Florida Beach: Watch the Video