'Brave' boy, 7, called 999 when dad had seizure

Police have paid tribute to the "exceptional bravery" and "great initiative" of a seven-year-old boy who called 999 after his dad suffered a seizure.

Eli, from Swindon, ran outside to call for help but, when he could not get a reply from neighbours, dialled 999 and worked out his address with the help of police call handlers during the incident on 12 June.

He also followed instructions to move his dad onto his back before paramedics arrived to take him to hospital, where he made a full recovery.

Eli, who said he wants to become a police officer when he grows up, was given a Wiltshire Police award for his actions on a visit to Gablecross Police Station.

While on the phone with police call handlers, Eli worked out his address by counting house numbers, helping his dad to get the urgent medical help he needed sooner.

Wiltshire Police's Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith, who gave Eli a Certificate of Appreciation and Lego police car set, said it was a "privilege" to show him around the police station.

During the visit Eli got to sit in a police car, meeting a police dog called Canto and was given a tour of the custody suite, interview rooms and control room.

"He showed exceptional bravery in a really difficult situation," Smith said.

"He acted so swiftly and showed great initiative to call 999 and then ensure the emergency services were directed to the right address."

She added the incident had highlighted the importance of teaching children their address and how to call 999 in an emergency.

Eli said he was "scared" and wasn't sure if calling 999 was the right thing because he did not want to get in any trouble.

"The police got there so fast I thought they were going to crash when they arrived," he added.

He said he loved his tour and would continue his dream of becoming a police officer one day, adding: "I want to be helpful."

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