Boy rescued from Batavia quarry during swimming test

BATAVIA, Ill. (WLS) -- An 8-year-old boy suddenly needed help while in the swimming lane at Harold Hall Quarry Beach in Batavia on Wednesday.

"The lifeguards noticed something unusual in the water and were able to jump in and rescue the youth," said Allison Niemela, executive director at the Batavia Park District.

The child had been taking a swimming test to be certified for deep water when at least four lifeguards rushed to his aid.

"I saw his head only because they covered him in a blanket, and he had an air mask on because they had to pump air into his lungs," said Colin Mertes, a witness.

"The lifeguards did not need to administer CPR, but oxygen was administered. And the paramedics came very quickly," Niemela said.

The boy is expected to be fine and the lifeguards are being hailed as heroes. But first responders had a message to parents at the start of pool season.

"Make sure the adults are paying attention, watching their kids, and it's recommended to have more than one adult pay attention to kids swimming," said Deputy Chief Randy Banker, Batavia Fire Dept.

The park district praised the four lifeguards - all of them high school and college age - but well-trained.