Clearwater Fire Rescue Workers, Lifeguards To Receive Commendations

Two Clearwater Fire & Rescue employees and six lifeguards will be recognized this afternoon for their lifesaving efforts in a near-drowning incident triggered by a medical event.

The eight were involved in the March 22 rescue of a patient who was found unconscious in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico at Clearwater Beach. Once the lifeguards pulled the person from the water, they realized they were dealing
with a full cardiac arrest.

Their quick and diligent actions resulted in the person being successfully treated at Morton Plant Hospital after the incident.

Those being recognized today are Mike Ward and Sergo Alexandre from the Fire Department and lifeguards Brent Armstrong, Brody Patrick, Patrick McEntegart, Daniella Penaranda, Caleb Hudak and Patrick Brafford.

The Pinellas County medical director will present EMS commendations to the group. The presentation will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the main lifeguard tower on Clearwater Beach.