Overview
- Emergency crews were called to the Hampton Inn in Kennebunk on Saturday after reports of a child not breathing and found a 4-year-old in cardiac arrest.
- First responders and an off-duty firefighter performed immediate lifesaving care before the child was taken by ambulance to MaineHealth Biddeford and then flown to MaineHealth Portland.
- The girl remains in critical condition at MaineHealth Portland and the Kennebunk Fire Department says the incident is under review.
- Officials are withholding additional personal and investigative details out of respect for the family while urging hotels and caregivers to check for lifeguards, depth markers, locked gates and trained staff.
- The fire department recommended specific prevention steps such as a sober, attentive ‘water watcher’ within arm’s reach of young children, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for inexperienced swimmers, four-sided pool fencing with self-closing gates, age-appropriate swim lessons and CPR training for caregivers and staff.