Memorial Day weekend was certainly memorable for one Florida family. During a boating trip on St. John's River, a strong current ripped the father, 7-year-old son, and 4-year-old daughter apart. The situation could have been deadly if not for the braveness of the 7-year-old son, Chase Prout, who saved the day.
This article discusses how Chase saved both his little sister and father, as well as what you should do if stuck in a strong current.
Pulled Apart; A Scary Situation
On Friday, Steven Proust brought his two kids (Chase, age 7, and Abigail, age 4) to St. John's River in Jacksonville for a fishing trip. After anchoring the boat and letting the kids swim in the water, Abigail got pulled away from the boat's safety by a current.
Thankfully, she was wearing a life vest,; however Chase, her older brother, let go of the boat to try to help her and keep her from drifting far away from them. Chase was not wearing a life vest, as Florida law only requires 6-years-old and under to wear them for their size boat.
Steven immediately jumped in to help his kids but was unable to reach them both. He made it to Abigail and instructed Chase to swim to shore.
A Super Brave 7-Year-Old Hero
Chase spent an hour trying to get to shore, dog-paddling and floating on his back to stay afloat as he fought the current.
"I felt really scared."
Even though Chase was afraid, he was brave and stayed calm. Once he reached the shore, he ran to the nearest house for help. The people at the house were able to call the police, and the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department responded immediately.
This story has a happy ending, and Chase was a real hero in getting help for his little sister and father. Steven and Abigail were found nearly two miles from the boat, but they were recovered safetly and the family is doing well.
What should you do if stuck in a river current?
Thankfully, the adorable 7-year-old hero managed to get to shore alright. According to Chilliwack Search and Rescue, there are some tips that everyone (especially Floridians) should know in case you're stuck in a current.
- Probably easier said than done, but stay calm. Try to keep your breathing even, specifically.
- Keep your feet up. This is to keep your feet from getting hurt or caught!
- Swim towards the shore, but do so in a "ferry angle." A ferry angle is about 45 degrees to the current.
- Don't give up!
Stay safe out there this summer.