Dramatic turn of events during a relaxing day of swimming in Seefeld (Tyrol): Helpers pulled an unconscious boy from the water and other swimmers helped. The rescue operation, which takes place dozens of times a day, was also impressive for other reasons. “Krone” editor Philipp Neuner happened to be there as an eyewitness.
There is a lot of discussion about the Tyrolean healthcare system. It turns out that this is too expensive and that it does not work very well, that the waiting times in the clinic are too long or that one or the other department is struggling with staff and finances. Everything is correct and important. But anyone who has experienced a rescue operation up close and sees what the helpers do gains a new perspective on our healthcare system. And feel a special form of gratitude.
I’ve had this feeling since Sunday. We had just laid down in the loungers in the outdoor area of the Seefeld Olympic Sports and Convention Center, put up the parasol and were looking forward to a relaxing day of swimming. The children were splashing in the water, the sun was shining from the sky, a cool breeze was blowing, guests from all over the world were chatting in foreign languages - pure holiday feeling at home.
Suddenly a scream!
Swimmers jumped up and ran to a young boy who had apparently passed out in the pool. They immediately got him out of the water. Others set up umbrellas. This is how civil courage works: instead of looking away, proceed with caution – and send away those who are too curious.
Two (!) lifeguards came running. It was at least less than five minutes before the follow-up horn of an approaching rescue operation was heard. Three or four care workers came, I just saw that they were young.
Police officers like the Cobra
Then the police arrived, including young emergency services, who could have been at the Cobra by their appearance. First two, then two more. They walked through the lounge area and looked for a nearby landing site for the emergency helicopter. But in the end that wasn’t necessary. Apparently not everyone is flown to the clinic because Tyrol has too many helicopters. Two or three more emergency doctors and paramedics arrived. They graciously greeted their colleagues, who had stabilized the patient and lifted him onto a mobile stretcher. Accompanied by police and rescue personnel, he was pushed to the car in the convoy via the emergency exit. Two ambulances set off with a tracking horn.
It is even possible that our system is the best
On this day the big craft festival took place in Seefeld, with a parade of traditional associations and thousands of visitors. I don’t know if the rescuers had stationed additional troops specifically for this purpose. I have only seen one rescue operation that was carried out in an impressively professional manner. Something like that commands the utmost respect from me. It’s entirely possible that our system is actually one of the best in the world.
The rescuers work 24/7
Nothing to be taken for granted in times like these and a reason to be grateful: for the fact that so many young, well-educated people are committed to a good cause – day after day, night after night, and even on weekends.
The patient was conscious during transport. I wish him a speedy recovery!
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
