NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE SERVICE
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It was a Sunday afternoon. The streets in Innisfil were alive with festive cheer and anticipation as families with their children lined the sidewalks along Innisfil Beach Road eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival for the annual Santa Claus parade.
In the midst of all the excitement and celebrations, one moment stood out — a moment when quick thinking and bravery turned a potential tragedy into a heartwarming story of courage and heroism.
On Nov. 24, 2024, at 1 p.m., Auxiliary Const. Balpreet Badial was on duty during the parade when several members of the public ran to her and said, “Officer, we need help.” Auxiliary Const. Badial was brought to a four-year-old boy who was choking. She quickly took action when she noticed that the child’s airway was blocked, and he was not breathing. Without hesitation, Auxiliary Const. Badial quickly began life-saving efforts on the boy and was able to successfully dislodge the blockage, found to be a piece of candy. Once the ambulance arrived, the child was assessed for medical evaluation and found to be in good health.
Auxiliary Const. Balpreet Badial is one of our newest members to join the South Simcoe police Auxiliary Unit. This had only been Auxiliary Const. Badial’s second event since she completed her training and received her badge on Nov. 14, 2024.
“I was right where I was supposed to be. I am grateful to have been able to save the life of a child in need. I take great pride in serving the Innisfil and Bradford West Gwillimbury communities as a volunteer auxiliary constable for the South Simcoe Police Service. This family looked to me for help and as someone who could save their loved one. In these situations, every single second counts. The training, coaching and support I received with the South Simcoe police allowed me to act fast and avert tragedy.” — Auxiliary Const. Balpreet Badial, South Simcoe Police Service
South Simcoe police places great emphasis on training and delves deeply into every aspect to ensure officers are well prepared for various situations. South Simcoe police auxiliary receive similar training as front-line officers. Police Const. Brent MacDonald, use of force instructor and training officer, values thorough training and conducts each and every session with precision to ensure our officers are equipped with the skills they need to serve and protect our communities.
This incident serves as an important reminder to the public that basic first aid and CPR training can help save a life. Police Const. MacDonald encourages our community members and the public to complete a basic first aid/CPR training course and make it a life-saving priority for you and your family.
Auxiliary members are an integral part of the South Simcoe Police Service. They are volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time to contribute to the well-being of our communities. They are guided by our motto, ‘Protect with Courage, Serve with Compassion,’ in every action taken and committed to making a difference.
“Auxiliary Const. Balpreet Badial’s response exemplifies the spirit of service and professionalism that our auxiliary members bring to the community. This heroic act underscores the importance of having trained volunteers to respond and step in during emergencies. Her quick thinking and selfless actions have made a lasting impact on the family members involved. She saved a life and made a difference to our community. What could have been a heartbreaking incident was instead a reminder of the quiet courage and dedication of our auxiliary members. As they humbly serve and embody the true spirit of (selflessness), it is through their modest actions that they make the greatest impact. We are all grateful she was there, and proud to have her on our team and a member of the South Simcoe Police family.” — Staff Sgt. Dave Phillips, community support — Auxiliary Unit, South Simcoe Police Service
The South Simcoe Police Service is actively recruiting motivated and dedicated individuals to join our team. If you are passionate about making a positive impact and contributing to your community, we invite you to apply. For more information about recruitment opportunities, visit our website at www.southsimcoepolice.on.ca.
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