Braedon Powell, a twelve-year-old nipper from Fish Hoek is being hailed a hero for his curiosity and fast thinking, saving two lives in the process.
Fish Hoek, South Africa (24 August 2020) – Braedon Powell is an u12 Nipper at Fish Hoek Surf Lifesaving Club who is making waves in his community for his bravery, curiosity and fast thinking!
Nippers are Lifeguards in training between the ages of 8 and 14. Nippers learn how to be safe in the sea and at the beach, basic first aid and lifesaving skills and generally have “Fun in the Sun”.
While at the beach recently, he noticed two men drifting on an inflatable mattress. As he was learning the ways of the ocean and lifesaving techniques, he could see they were on the verge of a dangerous situation. Braedon had noticed the wind shift ever so slightly and that the guys were slowly being blown out to sea.
Using his knee-board, Braedon paddled over to them to inform them of the possible danger they were in. It was then that he learned neither of the men could swim.
His training kicked in and he told the men to lay evenly and still on the mattress. Braedon then used his knee-board as afloat and his legs as the rudder and kicked them all the way back to the safety of the shore.
One of the first rules of lifesaving is to always be alert. Thanks to Braedon’s alertness and curiosity, he was able to prevent a possibly life-threatening situation and saved two lives in the process.
His community have hailed him a hero and praise is pouring in on the Fish Hoek Surf Lifesaving Club’s Facebook post. Many are calling for him to receive a medal for his efforts.
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