For his actions performed on the evening of October 5, 2014 that led to the resuscitation of a drowned, 2-year old boy, Homestead Police Detective Fernando Morales received a Life Saving Award as well as the honor of being named Officer of the Month for the month of October during November’s Special Council Presentation.
On the day in question, Detective Morales was on duty when he received a distress call from 9-1-1 dispatch concerning an unconscious 2 year old child who had inadvertently plunged into the waters of a man-made lake at the Keys Landing residences where he and his family live. First on the scene, Detective Morales jumped into action and immediately began administering CPR to the child as fire rescue was en route. Upon arrival, 19 year Fire Rescue veteran of Homestead’s Station No. 65, Lieutenant Newton took over the life saving duties, along with his crew, and promptly transported the child, who had regained his vital signs, to nearby Homestead Hospital. Thereafter, the child was taken to Miami Children’s Hospital where he remained in critical condition for several days. The child, who was essentially lifeless when Detective Morales first encountered him, made a full recovery.
When asked to say a few words, Detective Morales was brief but impassioned. “The one thing that I feel obligated to get out there is the importance of learning CPR. It is an invaluable tool because life is not only precious but it’s unpredictable and you just never know when you’d be called upon to use it. This, I cannot stress enough.”
Mayor Jeff Porter then added, “Today, we recognize you for the life you saved thanks to your rapid response, constant vigilance and strict adherence to training. We commend you for your courage, heroism, dedication and professionalism towards the community you have sworn to protect. Congratulations.”