City Honors Lifeguard

Quick action averted problem

Mayor Staffieri and lifeguard Kelly O'Connell

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen recognized Derby Veterans Community Center lifeguard Kelly O'Connell for her quick actions in averting a potentially serious problem at the Derby Veterans Community Center. Earlier this month Kelly was on duty at the pool when an 18 year old male found himself struggling at the deep end of the pool. O'Connell reacted immediately to the problem, jumped in and pulled the male to safety.

Pat Mascolo a local EMT and firefighter who was using the health club at the time of the incident responded quickly, but O'Connell had the problem under control, and the lucky male required no medical attention. Kelly is a student at Seymour High School is one of a number of part time lifeguards who work at the pool.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen honored her with a plaque and key to the city in a brief ceremony at the April 23 meeting of the Board.

Posted on April 23, 2008