When Heather Cassini took her family to Hampton Beach, she never anticipated the frightening danger lurking beneath the waves. After spending time playing in the ocean, her 10-year-old son Declan began feeling sick and soon collapsed, showing classic symptoms of hypothermia from unexpectedly cold water.
At first, Heather thought her son just needed rest, but Declan’s disorientation, vomiting, and pale skin alarmed nearby strangers, leading to quick medical aid from nurses on site and paramedics. The cold 52-degree water chilled him deeply, causing his body temperature to drop dangerously low.
Heather’s experience taught her a vital lesson: even in warm weather, cold water poses serious risks, especially to children who may not recognize when they are becoming too cold. She urges parents to pay attention and avoid long exposure in chilly water.
Thanks to quick help, Declan is now fine, but Heather hopes their story raises awareness and prevents similar tragedies for other families heading to the beach.
