By Erin Waldner
The Press Enterprise
BANNING, Calif. — Two Banning police officers who rescued a toddler who had fallen into a swimming pool were honored at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.
Brian Callahan and Mike Bennett each received a Lifesaving Award, as well as many tearful thank-yous from the boy’s mother, Timmy Diaz.
Banning Police Chief Leonard Purvis reported that on the afternoon of Dec. 11, dispatch advised patrol that a baby had fallen into a pool on West Wilson Street. Bennett was on the scene within 30 seconds.
The baby was not breathing.
According to Purvis, Bennett immediately started CPR and was soon assisted by Callahan, who arrived shortly after Bennett. The two continued CPR until Cal Fire personnel took over.
The police chief said in a statement: “Because of their devotion to duty and team effort to revive the baby, young Silas Martin, 18 months old, survived the ordeal. Their actions brought great credit upon the Banning Police Department, and I am very proud of their commitment to protect and serve all members of the community with honor and distinction.”
A boisterous Silas was at the council meeting with his mother.
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