A young boy named Walter Keeler, described as a “water baby,” demonstrated his ability to save himself using the “float to live” technique after being inadvertently left behind by a leisure boat during a snorkeling session in Turkey. The incident unfolded as Walter, aged nine at the time, and other swimmers were caught in a current that pulled them out to sea while the boat departed prematurely, leaving them stranded.
Despite his parents’ distress, Walter remained composed and drew upon his lifeguard training, acquired through the RLSS UK’s Rookie Lifeguard program. Having been enrolled in advanced swimming classes at Stoke Mandeville Stadium since October 2020, Walter had honed his stroke techniques and crucial water safety skills.
Reflecting on the ordeal, now aged ten, Walter shared his experience from last August to support the Save Lives for Sam water safety campaign. He recounted how he remembered his lifeguard lessons and calmly floated on his back to conserve energy and stay safe amidst the choppy waters off the coast of Kemer.
His parents, Elaine and Charles, shared their harrowing moments of helplessness as they watched Walter and other swimmers struggle in the water. Despite the initial panic and the boat’s distance, they witnessed Walter’s remarkable composure and self-rescue skills in action.
Emphasizing the importance of water safety education, Walter’s parents expressed gratitude for the training that equipped their son with the knowledge to navigate challenging situations effectively. Recognized for his bravery, Walter received a certificate from the RLSS UK, highlighting the significance of mastering lifesaving skills such as floating for self-rescue.
Ashley Jones, the RLSS UK Head of Water Safety and Education, commended Walter’s quick thinking and calm demeanor, attributing his response to the training received through the Rookie Lifeguard program. Jones stressed the importance of teaching young individuals not only swimming skills but also essential water safety practices to empower them in emergency situations.
The incident underscores the critical role of water safety training and the value of mastering self-rescue techniques like floating. As summer approaches, the advice is to practice floating by maintaining a clear airway, gentle movements of hands and legs, and seeking help or swimming to safety when needed.
