According to a report from ABC7, a member of the Bradley (IL) Fire Department (BFD) is being recognized for his quick-thinking actions after he jumped into a pond to rescue a driver who was submerged in the vehicle after a crash.
BFD member Kyle Haemker was driving home from a shift just before 1 p.m. Wednesday when he heard reports of the crash into the pond near the intersection of Village Woods and Route 394.
On arrival, a citizen told him someone was inside the vehicle, which was already fully submerged in water.
Haemker then leapt into the water; entered the vehicle; removed the victim’s seat belt; and, with help from a Crete Township ambulance crew, moved the driver safely to shore.
The victim expressed their gratitude, thanking Haemker for his quick actions, which ultimately saved the driver’s life, the BFD said.
RELATED
Fundamentals of Open Water Rescue
Fundamentals of Open Water Lifesaving: Rescue and Resuscitation of a Drowning Victim