Four Fairfax County Park Authority staff members were recognized on July 16 with lifesaving awards from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department for their extraordinary actions during a water emergency at Providence Recreation Center earlier this year.

In May, lifeguards Michaela Zawadzki, Juliet Raimando and Anna Parker, along with Manager on Duty Jeremy Alexander, responded immediately after a swimmer became unresponsive in the pool. Following their emergency action plan, staff quickly removed the individual from the water, cleared the pool, initiated CPR and chest compressions and deployed an automated external defibrillator (AED) before Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel arrived on scene.

"This incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of rigorous training, teamwork and preparedness," said Fairfax County Park Authority Deputy Director Sara Baldwin. "Michaela, Juliet, Anna and Jeremy remained calm under pressure and put their lifesaving skills into action when every second mattered. We are incredibly proud of the work our aquatics staff do every day to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community."

Upon the arrival of Fire and Rescue crews, the swimmer began to recover. The swift actions, professionalism and training demonstrated by the recreation center staff played a critical role in the successful outcome.

Fairfax County Park Authority lifeguards undergo extensive training in water rescue, CPR, first aid and emergency response to ensure they are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to aquatic emergencies. Their commitment helps provide a safe environment for the millions of guests who visit Park Authority aquatic facilities each year.

For more information, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.