7-year-old swims for an hour to get help for dad and sister stranded in river

Seven-year-old Chase Poust has been hailed as a hero after a remarkable act of bravery. He and his family were boating on the St. Johns River near Jacksonville, Florida, during Memorial
Day weekend. The plan was for Chase’s father, Steven, to fish while Chase and his four-year-old sister, Abigail, swam nearby. However, strong currents led to a dangerous situation.

Abigail, who was wearing a life jacket, was pulled away from the boat. Chase, without a life jacket, let go of the boat to help his sister. Despite his own fear, Chase managed to swim to shore, a distance of about a mile, battling the current for an hour.

Chase Poust spent about an hour swimming to shore and was able to get to a nearby home to ask for help. https://t.co/7l3pHRATHo

— WISN 12 NEWS (@WISN12News) May 31, 2021

Once on land, Chase ran for help. His cries for assistance were heard, and the Sheriff’s Office and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded. They rescued Steven and
Abigail, who had drifted a mile away from the boat.

The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department spokesperson praised the successful rescue and the bravery of young Chase. The family, thanks to Chase’s quick thinking and determination, emerged from the ordeal unharmed.

In Florida, a brave 7-year-old recounts hour-long swim to shore after boating mishap. pic.twitter.com/6w57oFJjAD

— KSL NewsRadio (@kslnewsradio) May 30, 2021

This heart-pounding story serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of water, especially when children are involved. It underscores the importance of exercising extreme caution and ensuring that safety measures are in place when spending time on the water. Chase’s heroic actions have rightfully earned him praise and recognition.