Heroic firefighter saves choking baby in Brackenfell

A Brackenfell family expressed their deep gratitude to firefighter, Arlin Thielman who helped save their four-month-old baby, Daniel from choking. 

Just before 9pm on November 14, Daniel’s mom, Miriam Pharoe administered some panado syrup as Daniel felt a bit warm, but the next thing she knew, her son started choking.

“Panic set in, and the family’s efforts to help the baby came to nought – and so they decided to rush him to hospital. On the way, Miriam told her husband to stop at the Fire Station, hoping someone there could be of assistance,” the City said.

Firefighter Thielman stepped in, and helped to stabilise Daniel, while also arranging for transport to hospital.

By the time the family arrived at hospital, Daniel was stable and coded from yellow to green thanks to the actions of the firefighter.

The two were reunited on Wednesday, this week.

In a message to Thielman, Pharoe said: “Your help has really turned our situation around. Thank You … that 5 - 10 minutes of help, tapping him, showing us which position to keep him, reassuring us, calling for a rescue vehicle, the calls to CapeGate Mediclinic and the check in’s on our way and while we were at hospital, we appreciate it.”

Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith said: “This is such a heartwarming story, and we are very relieved that Daniel has made a full recovery. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Firefighter Thielman for his quick reaction, which was key to this very positive outcome. You are a credit to our Fire and Rescue Service, and I commend you for your heroic actions.” 

Cape Times