All told the young boy swam against the current for an hour until he made it to dry land. From there, he ran for help.

Steven explained: “I screamed for help at the top of my lungs and waved my arms and sure enough someone heard us. Little man also made it to shore and got help and that’s what saved our lives.”

Steven and Abigail were rescued one hour later with the help of the Sheriff’s Office and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, having drifted a mile away from their boat.

Speaking at a news conference, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department spokesperson Eric Prosswimmer said: “We had every resource we could have possibly had coming quickly and we’re happy to say all three have been recovered, and all three are doing well. We couldn’t ask for a better outcome.”

What a close call! Thank God little Chase was able to swim and get the help that was so desperately needed.

Parents, please always exercise the most extreme caution when out on the water with children. Things can and do change in the blink of an eye, as evidenced here.

Share this article on Facebook to warn others about the dangers, and to praise Chase for his efforts.