On Monday, 26 October, Grenada Lifeguard Kadeem McFarlane of Sauteurs rescued a mother and child from a drifting dinghy off Grand Anse Beach after its motor failed. His quick action and stamina averted a dangerous situation.

The family, visiting from San Francisco on their catamaran, The Peach, was anchored about 200 metres offshore with their 7 children, all under 8. After the father returned from grocery shopping, his wife and one child set out in their dinghy to pick him up. They had barely gotten started, and the motor died, and the mother and child began drifting out to sea.

Stationed at the Grand Anse Lifeguard Tower in front of Camerhogne Park, McFarlane didn’t hesitate. He launched a kayak and powered through to reach the stranded pair before they drifted too far. With remarkable skill and composure, he tied the dinghy’s rope to his kayak and, in tough winds, towed the mother and child safely back to The Peach.

McFarlane recently completed the 2-week National Lifeguard programme and certification through the Lifesaving Society of Canada. His training, alertness, strength, and stamina let him act before the situation worsened.

The rescue shows how vital lifeguards are to protecting Grenada’s beaches and waters. Emergencies involve more than swimmers. They involve disabled boats, shifting currents, and unexpected conditions which can quickly endanger lives. Grenada Lifeguards proudly recognises Kadeem McFarlane for the vigilance, judgment, quick action, and endurance that define professional lifeguarding.

Congratulations, Kadeem, on a job well done!

Deb Eastwood, Grenada Lifeguards

NOW Grenada is not responsible for the opinions, statements or media content presented by contributors. In case of abuse, click here to report.