The Southampton Town Board honored four individuals on October 6 for aiding fellow residents in need during the month of August. The four individuals, Bay Constable Christopher Fraser, Dr. Seth Korbin, Zachary Hafemeister and William Mendel were awarded proclamations for their heroic deeds and quick reactions to help people in distress.
“It is remarkable to hear the stories of how these four local heroes saved residents’ lives” said Councilman Rick Martel. “Their stories highlight the importance of water safety and medical training”.
Mr. Fraser received a radio call for a victim who had been struck by a boat propeller and was the first to arrive on the scene. Bay Constable Fraser immediately applied tourniquets to the victim’s legs, which slowed down blood loss. His medical training helped him provide immediate medical care, according to a press release issued by the Town Board last week.
Dr. Korbin was in the water near Road K, when he saw people waving to him but he thought it was a warning about sharks. He then noticed it was due to distressed swimmers and he immediately assisted the mother and son to safety. On the same weekend and location, two boys, Zachary Hafemeister and William Mendel saw two distressed swimmers and assisted them to the shore with their boogie boards.
This year at town beaches with lifeguards, there have been 100 saves from rip currents or distressed summers, which highlights that beginner or experienced swimmers can face rough waters, said town officials last week.
For more information on water safety, please go to the town’s website at southamptontownny.gov.