Anthony Yates
A five-year-old girl is reportedly in a critical condition in the hospital after getting washed into a storm drain while playing in the rain.
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What happened: According to a report by ABC7, the young girl was playing near Bahia Vista Street on Sunday, August 24. Authorities told the outlet that a strong current pulled her into the drainage system.
- Officials reportedly blamed the sudden flow of water on a burst water main. Deputies told ABC7 the 5-year-old was near a culvert at the time. Emergency services located her 100 yards west of where she was dragged in.
- Once the Fire Department rescued the child from the drainage system, they transported her to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where she remains in a critical condition.
- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office posted about the water main break on Facebook. “There is currently a road closure due to a water main break in the 5400 block of Bahia Vista St. Sarasota County Public Works is currently on site addressing the issue,” they said. Authorities also advised motorists to seek alternative routes.
The Fire Department Revealed More Details About The Incident
A high-risk event: Sarasota County Fire Department Assistant Chief Tim Dorsey described the incident as a “low frequency, high-risk event.”
- Dorsey admitted it was “not a typical incident to respond to.” He added, “There’s a tremendous amount of risk and danger there, and they [the fire department] respond to it and mitigate the situation.”
- The Assistant Chief explained that authorities set up a “search box” around the area. Once they located the child, they “started resuscitative efforts” before transporting her to the hospital.
What to do to stay safe: While the incident in Florida occurred under exceptional circumstances, authorities do suggest ways to keep safe, particularly in the rain.
- The National Weather Service (NWS) warns that heavy rain can cause flash flooding. In those situations, the organization recommends staying clear of drainage ditches and culverts.
- NWS also recommends staying on high ground if you live in a flood-prone area.
- Finally, the organization notes that children are especially vulnerable in water. They “should not be allowed to play in or around flowing water,” per the NWS website.
