A man in his 60s was rushed to hospital after he was found unresponsive in a swimming pool at Serangoon Swimming Complex on the morning of June 3.
The incident prompted an emergency response from lifeguards, paramedics and police officers, with pool users asked to leave the water while rescue efforts were underway.
According to ZaoBao, Witnesses described a tense scene as first responders worked to revive the man before he was taken away in an ambulance.
Lifeguards Performed CPR At Poolside
A member of the public who arrived at the swimming complex shortly after 7am said she was informed by staff that the facility had been temporarily closed.
From the entrance, she noticed an elderly man lying motionless beside the pool while lifeguards attended to him.
According to the witness, a male lifeguard was continuously performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), while another staff member monitored the situation.
Several swimmers and visitors gathered nearby as the rescue operation unfolded.
Some members of the public had reportedly been asked to leave the pool immediately after the incident occurred.
The witness said the atmosphere was tense as the man showed little response while emergency treatment was being administered.
SCDF Arrives To Continue Rescue Efforts
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) personnel arrived at the swimming complex shortly afterwards and took over the resuscitation efforts.
Paramedics continued CPR for approximately 10 minutes before placing the man on a stretcher and transferring him into an ambulance.
The man was subsequently conveyed to hospital in an unconscious condition.
Several police officers were also seen at the scene conducting inquiries and speaking with pool staff as part of their investigations.
The swimming complex remained partially cordoned off while authorities carried out their work.
Suspected Medical Emergency Before Incident
According to information shared by pool staff, the man may have suffered a sudden medical episode while swimming.
It is believed that he experienced a suspected heart attack in the water before being pulled from the pool by lifeguards.
The exact cause of the incident has not been officially confirmed.
In response to media queries, SCDF confirmed that it received a call for assistance at about 7.05am at Serangoon Swimming Complex, located along Yio Chu Kang Road.
One person was conveyed to Tan Tock Seng Hospital for medical treatment.
Swimming Complex Reopened Later In The Morning
Despite the incident, the swimming complex reportedly resumed operations later in the morning.
By around 10am, members of the public were once again allowed access to the facility, although police officers remained on-site to complete investigations.
Authorities have not released further information regarding the man’s condition.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of one’s health condition before engaging in strenuous physical activities, especially for older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.
Police investigations are ongoing.