PSLE: Drowning

The gentle breeze caressed the canopy of the coconut trees. The splashing of the waves formed a delightful symphony. The cosy stretch of sand was lined with beautiful, glittering seashells. Children's laughter filled the air. The ambience was so calm and relaxing.

Kelvin and his family had just arrived at the beach. Under the natural awning of a rain tree, they were amply well-shaded, with slivers of sunlight that were dancing on the well-woven mat. As his parents lounged leisurely on the mat, Kelvin was blithely frolicking in the shallow waters while Odelia was swimming nearby.

Out of the blue, desperate cries pierced through the air. A chill ran down Kelvin's spine. He could recognise the voice behind the ear-busting scream. It was his sister! Kelvin immediately whipped his head around and spotted his sister's hand flailing wildly as her head bobbed up and down the water.

What should Kelvin do? He could not swim! A brainwave hit him like a lightning bolt! Alert his dad! He sprinted as fast as his legs could carry him towards his family's resting spot. Alas! His parents were missing! They must have gone for a stroll somewhere. Kelvin's head raced fast like a Ferrari sports car. He spotted a lifeguard approaching him. He immediately dashed towards him and pleaded, “Please save my sister! She is drowning!”

The lifeguard followed close at his heels. When they reached the scene, Odelia was already missing. Right before Kelvin's beady eyes was just a vast ocean with some ocean liners in the background. Kelvin's heart dropped like a stone! Was his sister dead? He started crying and tears flowed down like two gushing taps.

Just then, a miracle happened! Odelia's hands appeared above the crest of the waves. Upon seeing that, the lifeguard plunged into the azure blue water and swam towards him in record time. With a forceful tug, he hooked his muscular arms securely over her neck. Then, using capable and affirmative strokes, he swam with her towards the shore.

As Odelia lay on the sandy shore, she was as white as a sheet. She seemed so lifeless. Was she dead? The lifeguard immediately resuscitated her. After what had seemed like eternity, she gave a loud cough. Odelia was alive! Kelvin cheered loudly, hugging his sister tightly.

The parents came over and Kelvin recounted the incident to them. The family was so grateful to the lifeguard. They thanked him profusely and the lifeguard praised Kelvin for his vigilance instead. Kelvin beamed with pride. He vowed to learn swimming and even planned to take up a lifeguard course in future. Who knows? Maybe, just maybe, he could be a hero and save some lives as well.