Community Corner

Boy, 10, 'Responsive' After Near-Drowning At Orland Aquatic Center

The child was taken to a hospital Monday following the non-fatal drowning, Orland Park Recreation Department officials said.

The center was closed for the remainder of the day Monday and also Tuesday for a training and debrief, officials said.
The center was closed for the remainder of the day Monday and also Tuesday for a training and debrief, officials said. (Ashley Ludwig/Patch/Stock photo)

ORLAND PARK, IL — A 10-year-old boy was treated at the hospital Monday following a non-fatal drowning at Orland Park's Centennial Park Aquatic Center.

According to police, the boy was playing near the Activity Pool at around 2:40 p.m. Monday, when lifeguards began evacuating the water park and surrounding area. The boy was taken from the pool and eventually regained consciousness and began breathing again, first responders said.

The child was taken to a local hospital, where he continued receiving medical attention. In a statement, Orland Park Recreation Department said the boy was "responsive."

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The aquatic center was closed for the remainder of the day Monday and is also closed Tuesday while staff conducts a training and debrief, the department said.

The incident occurred just two days after the park's opening day on May 28.

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According to the CDC, there are more than 8,000 non-fatal drownings in the U.S. each year, and for every child who dies from drowning, another eight receive emergency department care for non-fatal drowning.

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