Quick Answer
Signs of drowning to watch for during water activities include a sudden change in behavior, difficulty staying afloat, and visible signs such as blue lips, purple fingers, or excessive water in the lungs. Paddling or splashing may stop before the person becomes submerged. A lack of response to verbal commands or attempts to assist can also indicate a drowning victim.
Recognizing Drowning Behavior
When in or around water, it’s essential to recognize the early signs of drowning behavior. This includes a sudden change in behavior, such as a person who was previously swimming or playing in the water suddenly stopping or becoming disoriented. Look for visible signs such as blue lips, purple fingers, or excessive water in the lungs. These signs can indicate that the person is in distress and requires immediate attention.
Water Rescue Techniques
If you witness someone struggling or showing signs of drowning, act quickly and follow proper water rescue techniques. For calm waters, approach the victim in a gentle, downstream manner to avoid creating a riptide. Use a flotation device or a rescue tube to stabilize the victim and provide a secure handhold for towing them to safety. For rough or cold waters, use a rescue rope or a flotation device with a secure handle to minimize the risk of entanglement.
Post-Rescue Care
After a person is rescued, it’s crucial to provide proper care to prevent further injury or hypothermia. Remove wet clothing and provide a warm blanket to help regulate body temperature. If the person is showing signs of distress or respiratory failure, begin CPR immediately. For every minute without oxygen, the brain loses two minutes of function, making prompt CPR critical in preventing long-term brain damage. Call 911 or your local emergency number and continue CPR until medical help arrives.
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