City recognizes paramedic, EMT for North Shore family flood rescue

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Honolulu officials are recognizing the work and sacrifice of emergency medical responders during National EMS Week.

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Mayor Rick Blangiardi joined Honolulu Emergency Medical Services personnel at Honolulu Hale this week to proclaim National EMS Week and honor two EMS workers for their actions during the March Kona low storm.

“These men and women are true heroes, and they deserve our respect and recognition every day,” Blangiardi said. “I strongly encourage everyone, if you see an EMS professional, to thank them for their steadfast dedication and incredible service.”

During the ceremony, Paramedic Will Batalon and EMT Alexis De Costa were recognized for rescuing a North Shore family during severe flooding on March 20.

Officials said the Waialua EMS crew became stranded in rising floodwaters while responding to a call along Kamehameha Highway around 1 a.m. After being assisted from their ambulance by Honolulu police officers, the first responders heard screams coming from a nearby home threatened by floodwaters and possible collapse.

In chest-high water and darkness, Batalon, De Costa and two HPD officers entered the home and rescued four children and three adults, one at a time, through the floodwaters.

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“This was a miracle,” said Honolulu Emergency Services Director Jim Ireland. “Our EMS crews and Honolulu police officers were in the right place at the right time, and I believe they saved those children’s lives.”

Officials said the family was later taken by a high-water rescue vehicle to an emergency room for treatment after showing signs of hypothermia.

The city presented Batalon and De Costa with commemorative plaques during the ceremony recognizing their bravery and service.

Honolulu Hale will also be illuminated in orange and blue through May 24 in honor of National EMS Week.

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