Dewey officers, lifeguards recognized for saving man’s life

September 26, 2023 7

Members of the Dewey Beach Patrol and police department were recognized at the Sept. 15 commissioners meeting for their efforts in saving a man’s life this summer.

Town Manager Bill Zolper said police officers Lt. Cliff Dempsey and Pfc. Dylan Ebke, and lifeguards Lt. Hank Coveleski and Lt. Liam Zolper worked together to use an AED to resuscitate and sustain an unconscious man, saving his life until paramedics arrived.

After the meeting, Dewey Beach Patrol Capt. Todd Fritchman said his guards typically see one to two lifesaving incidents such as this every year.

Dewey lifeguards are certified as emergency first responders by the Delaware State Fire School and provide fast, basic life support within town limits because they are right on scene, Fritchman said, noting that Coveleski and Zolper are highly experienced in providing emergency medical services.

All Dewey Beach Patrol members are certified healthcare providers by the American Heart Association and complete training in CPR, standard first aid and c-spine injury stabilization. The patrol is also nationally accredited by the United States Lifesaving Association to certify members in open-water rescue.

Fritchman said he is currently planning for the 2024 summer season. For more information about the Dewey Beach Patrol, including how to become a lifeguard, go to townofdeweybeach.com.