On July 13, 2023, Emma Schinkel, called on her American Red Cross training in Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid to save the life of a 5-year-old boy swimming at the Groton Pool. Emma (pictured above left) noticed that the boy was distressed, and she helped him get out of the pool safely. For this heroic and lifesaving action, Emma Schinkel, received the Red Cross Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders in a ceremony held at Groton City Hall on May 21, during a City Council meeting.

The Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders is the highest award given by the Red Cross to individuals or group of individuals who save or sustain a life using skills learned in a Red Cross Training Services course.

“We’re extremely proud to present a Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders to Emma Schinkel,” said Patty Brooks, executive director, American Red Cross serving Eastern South Dakota. Her actions exemplify our mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.”

Emma was one of three lifeguards on duty at the Groton Pool. In her zone, there was a young boy swimming in the poo who became distressed and was waving his arms up and down. Emma entered the water and lifted him up to the edge of the pool to help him get out of the water. From her assessment, Emma found the boy was breathing on his own.

Emma, 18, graduated from Groton High School this year and is planning on attending Lake Area Technical College in the fall to pursue a career in nursing.

Red Cross training gives people the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency and save a life. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills session) and classroom courses are available at redcross.org/takeaclass.

If you or someone you know has used skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain the life of another individual, visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate, recognize, or be inspired.