A family is mourning the tragic loss of a toddler who drowned in a swimming pool in Heidelberg on July 11, despite the determined efforts of the child’s father and multiple emergency medical teams to save the youngster’s life.

According to Heidelberg Volunteer Medics and First Responders, a distress call was received after a neighbour reported that a toddler had fallen into a swimming pool.

Volunteer medics responded immediately, assisted by Netcare 911 and Gauteng Provincial Government Emergency Medical Services.

When emergency responders arrived, the toddler’s father was already performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation while receiving guidance from a medic via a video call.

As more emergency personnel reached the scene, they joined the resuscitation effort, working together to provide advanced life support.

Emergency teams continued resuscitation attempts for more than an hour in an effort to save the child’s life.

Despite their extensive efforts, the toddler was pronounced dead at the scene.

Heidelberg Volunteer Medics and First Responders described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy and extended their condolences to the bereaved family.

The organisation also urged parents and caregivers to remain vigilant around swimming pools and other bodies of water, warning that drowning can occur silently and within seconds.

The circumstances surrounding the drowning are expected to be investigated by the relevant authorities.

ALSO READ: 6-year-old boy drowns in Nigel Dam near Hallgate Smallholdings