Drowning refers to a suffocation phenomenon caused by the obstruction of the airway by water or other liquids.

Every year, the number of drowning-related deaths remains high worldwide, especially in summer, when water activities increase the risk.

Therefore, understanding the signs of drowning and emergency rescue methods is crucial. This knowledge can help us respond promptly in case of an accident and minimize the occurrence of tragedies.

Six Signs of Drowning

1. Unable to breathe or shout: In the early stages of drowning, the person often cannot breathe due to the airway being blocked by water, and in severe cases, they are unable to make any sound. At this point, the person on the water's surface shows obvious panic, opening their mouth but not making any noise.

2. Unable to wave or struggle: A drowning person typically struggles to stay afloat, but this struggle doesn't last long. Due to exhaustion, the person gradually loses control of their body and is unable to signal for help.

3. Eyes rolled back, facial expression of pain: The person’s face shows extreme pain, their eyes may roll back, and their complexion may turn pale or bluish, indicating difficulty in breathing. At this stage, they can no longer react consciously.

4. Body gradually sinking: When a person can no longer maintain their physical strength, their body will slowly sink. This indicates that the drowning person is rapidly losing consciousness or is in danger of suffocation.

5. Foam or rapid breathing from the mouth: The drowning person’s mouth may produce bubbles or foam, indicating that water has entered the airway or lungs. Breathing becomes rapid, shallow, and irregular, possibly leading to suffocation.

6. Head lower than the water surface: As the drowning person loses strength, their head slowly sinks below the water's surface. By this point, they can no longer breathe normally.

First Aid Methods

When someone is found to be drowning, the first reaction is critical. Correct first aid methods can help the person resume breathing and avoid accidental death.

1. Ensure your own safety: Before attempting any rescue, ensure your own safety. Do not rashly jump into the water or approach the drowning person, as this may result in a double drowning. You can use items like a lifebuoy or a long pole to help the person.

2. Call for help: Once you confirm there is a drowning person, immediately call emergency services to notify professional rescuers. If there are others around, instruct them to make the call for help.

3. Quickly move the person to safety: Once the drowning person is pulled above the water’s surface, immediately move them to a safe location, such as the shore or a boat. If a water-based rescue is not possible, use rescue equipment as much as possible to assist.

4. Check their breathing: Once the person is placed on a flat surface, check if their breathing is normal. If there is no response, immediately perform CPR. If they are having difficulty breathing, ensure the airway is clear and perform artificial respiration.

How to perform CPR for a drowning victim

Video by ParkviewHealth

5. Perform artificial respiration: If the drowning person is not breathing or breathing weakly, perform artificial respiration immediately. Tilt the person’s head back to ensure the airway is clear, seal their mouth with yours, and inhale air into their lungs until normal breathing resumes.

6. Perform chest compressions: If the person’s heart has stopped, chest compressions are crucial. Place your hands on the center of their chest and press down forcefully. The compression rate should be 100-120 per minute until emergency personnel arrive or the person starts breathing again.

Drowning is a common yet extremely dangerous accident, often occurring very quickly. When engaging in water activities, understanding the signs of drowning and mastering first aid skills is everyone’s responsibility. In an emergency, taking prompt action and staying calm can buy precious time for the drowning person.

Therefore, besides enjoying the fun of water activities, it is essential to focus on learning water safety knowledge and first aid skills. Life is one-time only, so let us work together to ensure safety.