Volunteer police officer credited with saving child's life at Santa parade

An auxiliary South Simcoe police officer is credited with saving a child’s life during the Innisfil Santa Parade last month.

Auxiliary Const. Balpreet Badial was on duty at the Nov. 24 parade when she was approached by frantic residents calling for help.

The volunteer officer was brought to a four-year-old boy and noticed the child wasn’t breathing and his airway was blocked.

Relying on her training, Badial immediately performed life-saving efforts and dislodged the blockage, which turned out to be a piece of candy.

When paramedics arrived, the boy was breathing again and was assessed to be in good health.

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The incident happened just 10 days after Badial officially joined the South Simcoe Police Auxiliary Unit, making this only her second event with a badge.

“I was right where I was supposed to be,” she said in a statement. “I’m grateful to have been able to save the life of a child in need.”

Staff Sgt. Dave Phillips said the auxiliary officer’s quick-thinking actions highlight the importance of having volunteers trained to be prepared in various situations.

“What could have been a heartbreaking incident was instead a reminder of the quiet courage and dedication of our auxiliary members,” Phillips added. “We are all grateful she was there, and proud to have her on our team.”

The police service said that the incident is a reminder that anyone can help save a life with basic CPR and First Aid training.

“In these situations, every single second counts,” Badial said.