Seven-year-old Swindon boy given award for bravery after calling 999 to help dad
Eli worked out his address for the operator and helped put his dad into the recovery position when he suffered a seizure in June
A seven-year-old boy from Swindon has been given an award by Wiltshire Police after to calling 999 to help his dad who was having a seizure.
Elijah (Eli) was at his father's home in Swindon on 12th June when he began to suffer the medical episode.
Wiltshire Police said Eli ran out of his house shouting for help from neighbours before knocking on their doors.
When no one answered recognising the urgency of the situation he called 999 himself. something he had not done before.
While on the phone, Eli identified his address by counting house numbers and followed instructions by police call handlers to manoeuvre his dad onto his back
Police and the ambulance service arrived quickly at the address and Eli’s dad was able to receive the correct help.
Eli, who dreams of becoming a police officer, was honoured for his bravery today (11 August) with a Certificate of Recognition from Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith, along with a Lego police car set.
He was also given a personal tour of Gablecross Police station in Swindon.
During his visit, Elijah sat in a police car, tried out the blue emergency lights, met Police Dog Canto, and explored various sections of the station, including the custody suite and control room.
ACC Deb Smith said: “It was a delight to present this award to Elijah today – he showed exceptional bravery in a really difficult situation.
“He acted so swiftly and showed great initiative to call 999 and then ensure the emergency services were directed to the right address.
“He’s clearly very passionate about policing so it was a privilege to show him around Gablecross and answer his many brilliant questions.
“I hope he goes on to realise his dream of becoming a police officer one day.
“This incident also highlights the importance of teaching your children to both know their address and how to call 999 just in case there’s an emergency. You never know when it might be needed.”