Siblings’ calm and decisive actions save a life
Faced with a critical medical emergency, three young siblings from the Parker family sprung into action, demonstrating remarkable courage and composure beyond their years. Read how their swift and decisive response saved a life.
On November 28, a showing of courage and quick thinking was exhibited by young siblings Skyla (12), Kasey (13), and Jason Parker (15) when they saved the life of their domestic worker’s niece during a critical medical emergency. Their swift actions not only depicted their bravery but also the effectiveness of the life-saving skills they had learned.
According to Juan van der Westhuizen, from SCP, the incident unfolded when Dr Erika Parker, the mother of the three siblings, received a distressing call from her kids regarding their helper’s niece, who had attempted to harm herself. Recognising the urgency of the situation, she quickly reached out for assistance.
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“Within minutes, a response team from SCP security, accompanied by an area vehicle, arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, it became evident that the young girl required immediate medical attention.” Parker guided the responders to the patient, where they assessed the situation and promptly contacted Neil van der Merwe, the EMS director for ComMed.
In response, he dispatched volunteer paramedic Annemarie Hattingh, who quickly stabilised the patient before transporting her to the nearest hospital for further care.
Prior to the arrival of the adults, the Parkers demonstrated remarkable composure. Skyla engaged the young girl in conversation to help prevent any further self-harm, while Kasey attempted to climb through a window to assist, voiced Van der Westhuizen.
When Kasey’s efforts to get through were unsuccessful, she and Jason took matters into their own hands, retrieving a sledgehammer to break down the door. This was how the paramedic managed to reach the girl when she arrived.
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Their determination and teamwork played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the young girl. After the situation was under control, Parker expressed her gratitude for her children’s actions, and promptly notified SCP security about the heroic deeds of the Parker siblings.
Van der Westhuizen said that it was remarkable for young individuals to remain calm and act decisively in an emergency. The organisation reached out to the Parker family to present the siblings with bravery certificates. An honour they were thrilled to receive.
In addition to recognising their bravery, SCP Security extended an invitation to the Parker family to participate in a training day for their kid-friendly safety programme.
This initiative focuses on educating children about fire safety and medical emergencies, aiming to equip them with essential skills for the future. SCP Private Fire Search and Rescue conducts training sessions multiple times a week at schools and community organisations, welcoming anyone interested in joining their efforts.
The actions of Skyla, Kasey, and Jason Parker are a reminder of the impact that courage and quick thinking can have in a crisis. Their story inspires others in the community to prioritise safety and preparedness, fostering an environment where everyone can learn and grow.
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