Emergencies rarely come with a warning. They can happen in an instant at a grocery store, a family gathering, a community pool, or even the ocean. When they do, many people freeze, unsure of what to do. But thanks to their Red Cross training, Parker Burns and Emily Locy didn’t hesitate when faced with life-or-death situations. Their quick thinking and courageous actions saved two lives.

On Tuesday, December 3, the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross honored both Burns and Locy with the prestigious Certificate of Merit. This award, one of the highest given by the Red Cross, recognize individuals who use their Red Cross lifesaving training in real-world emergencies.

A Life Saved on the Court

On August 2, 2024, Parker Burns arrived at the Cascades Pickleball Courts in Port St. Lucie to find a man collapsed on the ground, surrounded by concerned bystanders. Without hesitation, Burns jumped into action. He quickly assessed the situation, directed someone to call 9-1-1, and asked for an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Checking for responsiveness, he immediately started CPR and applied the AED. When no shock was advised, Burns continued chest compressions until EMS arrived. His decisive actions gave the man a fighting chance at survival.

Rescue in Rough Waters

Just two weeks later, on August 16, 2024, Emily Locy was surfing on Wabasso Beach before work when she spotted a teenage boy struggling against a rip current. Locy, a trained Red Cross Water Safety Instructor and lifeguard, recognized the signs of active drowning.

With lifeguards not yet on duty, Locy knew she had to act fast. She paddled toward the boy, coaching him on how to escape the rip current. Just as he was out of danger, a wave crashed over him, pulling him back in. Locy reached him just in time, offering her surfboard and guiding him through the rough surf until he safely reached the shore. There, she reunited him with his grateful mother and grandmother and took the time to educate them about rip currents and beach safety.

Recognizing True Heroes

For their bravery and skill, both Burns and Locy received the Certificate of Merit, the highest award given by the Red Cross for using training to save a life. This prestigious certificate is signed by the President of the United States. Their awards were presented at a chapter board gathering in December, where their selfless actions were celebrated.

Be Ready to Save a Life

Since 1911, the Red Cross has recognized ordinary people who perform extraordinary acts of courage in emergencies. The stories of Parker Burns and Emily Locy remind us that knowing what to do in a crisis can mean the difference between life and death.

You can be prepared, too. The Red Cross offers a variety of first aid, CPR, and water safety courses available online, in person, or through blended learning. Take a class today and equip yourself with the skills that could save a life. Visit redcross.org/takeaclass to learn more.

Do You Know a Local Hero?

If you know someone who has used Red Cross training to save or sustain a life, nominate them for a Lifesaving Award at LifesavingAwards.org. Their story deserves to be told.