the victim’s head is low in the water, with his mouth at water level. he may tilt her head back with his mouth open he may have glassy or empty eyes that are unable to focus his hair may obstruct his view and he makes no attempt to move it he fails to kick with or move his legs and is in vertical position in the water he may be hyperventilating or gasping for air he may try to swim without making any real headway he may try to roll over on to his back he may appear to be climbing an invisible ladder.
is likely silent. A drowning person is almost always unable to call for help. There are some cases, however, in which a drowning individual can shout. may hold her mouth below the surface of the water or alternate between the surface and under the water. This makes it difficult for her to inhale or exhale. cannot wave or signal because the natural instinct is to press down on the water surface to lift him up for a breath. is also unable to control his arm movements, which make it difficult for him to swim to a rescuer or grab on to a lifeline. he will be vertical in the water and not show any signs of kicking. A victim exhibiting these signs only has about 20-60 seconds before she is submerged underwater.
Silence. Most children will splash and yell when playing in the water, if your child or the children you are with become quiet, check to make sure they are safe. Knocked down or failed barriers. If you have a pool at home that is fenced in, a failed gate or other barriers may indicate that your child accessed the pool area and is in need of immediate assistance. Remember that your child can also drown in the bath, so make sure that you watch them at all times, even around the shallowest bodies of water. [8] X Research source If you have an underwater pool alarm and it goes off, it may be a sign of your child in distress.
Any child rescued from the water. Dry drowning can occur even if a child is rescued so contact emergency personnel or call your doctor immediately. Persistent coughing. Labored, rapid, and shallow breathing. You may see flared nostrils or space between their ribs or a gap above the child’s collarbone in this case. Sleepiness. Changes in behavior, including forgetfulness. Vomiting.
The best way to see if a person needs help is to ask “are you ok?” If the person can answer, chances are they are ok. If the person does not answer, however, get yourself or a lifeguard to the person immediately.
Call emergency medical services immediately to get help with the situation. If you are unable to swim, try and get the attention of someone who can or find a lifeline that you can throw to the person. It is not worth risking the lives of two people. If the situation is dangerous, for example because of lightning or high waves, do not attempt to rescue a person. Remember that it is always better to err on the side of caution than ignoring a questionable situation. For example, if you are not sure that a person is drowning, try and help them if you can. On the other hand, if a situation puts you or your life in danger such as a live wire close to water, as difficult as it may be, don’t attempt a rescue.
Find any type of device that a person can grab on to. This could be a shepherd’s crook, life ring, or even a long tree branch. Some pools have a long metal pole for the person the hold. You can also extend your hand or wrist to the person as an assist. Keep your body low to the ground so that the person doesn’t pull you into the water.
It’s best to approach the victim from behind. Panicky people will grab at whatever is floating - and this includes would-be rescuers. This can possibly leading to two drowning deaths. Make sure to communicate with the person and let them know you are there. Sometimes this will encourage a person to come your direction. [14] X Research source The easiest way to rescue the person is to place your hands under the armpits and pull them to safety. Avoid physical contact with a panicky swimmer, if at all possible. A panicked swimmer may grab at anything that floats, including you. This may not be a problem if the person is a 3 years old, but even a small woman can easily pull down an adult. Bring a flotation device if at all possible.
Make sure that you or someone else has called emergency medical services to aid your in your efforts to help the person.
Contact a local pool or school to inquire about swim lessons. Learning to swim will also teach you to not fear the water, which can also minimize your risk for drowning.
Bodies of water can have currents, riptides, and other features that can be dangerous for even the best and strongest of swimmers. Staying within designated areas can also mean that help can more effectively and quickly get to your aid in the event you or another person are in distress.
If you cannot find a buddy with whom to swim, consider either going to an area where there is a lifeguard on duty or try another activity until you have a swimming companion. Remember that you can drown or go into distress even at a guarded beach or pool.
Only purchase certified or approved life jacket. These have been tested for maximum safety and may prove better at preventing accidental drowning. You can buy life jackets at many sports stores, boat stores, or even from some medical supply stores.
If there is a lifeguard present, consider asking if he is aware of any natural features of which you should be aware. In many cases, bodies of water that have lifeguards will mark off areas that have potentially dangerous natural features.
Alcohol not only impairs your judgment, but also inhibits your balance and coordination. This can weaken your swimming skills. Alcohol further reduces your body’s ability to stay warm, making you more prone to hypothermia, which can also increase your risk of drowning.
