Quick Answer
Panic can significantly increase the difficulty of swimming to safety, especially in turbulent waters. When swimmers panic, their stroke becomes erratic, and they may tire quickly, leading to exhaustion and possible drowning. Panic can also impair judgment and decision-making.
The Physiology of Panic in Water
When a person panics in water, their body’s natural “fight or flight” response is triggered, causing an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. This response diverts blood flow from the muscles to the brain and other vital organs, making it more difficult to swim. In turbulent waters, such as those caused by a strong current or a whitewater river, the added stress of panicking can be particularly hazardous.
The Effects of Panic on Swimming Technique
Panic can cause a person to abandon proper swimming technique, resulting in a wild, flailing motion that wastes energy and creates more drag. This can lead to exhaustion and a loss of buoyancy, causing the swimmer to sink lower in the water. To avoid this, swimmers should focus on calm, deliberate movements, using their legs to kick and their arms to paddle in a steady, rhythmic motion.
Staying Calm in Turbulent Waters
To increase the chances of survival when swept downstream, swimmers should learn to remain calm and focus on finding a safe place to exit the water. This may involve swimming against the current or searching for a shallow area or a natural barrier, such as a rock or a tree. In all cases, swimmers should conserve their energy by using efficient swimming techniques and avoid exhausting themselves with frantic, panicky movements.
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