Drowning
Learning how to swim will reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of drowning. A cramp can completely incapacitate even the most experienced swimmer. Remember, not all drowning incidents occur in pools and lakes. In fact, most occur in the home in only a few inches of water.
Treatment for victims
If you come upon someone who is drowning:
- Get them out of the water immediately.
- Send someone for assistance. If you are alone, stay with the victim and shout loudly for help.
- If the victim is breathing, allow them to expel the remaining water by turning them on their side.
- If they are not breathing, begin CPR at once.
- Do not stop CPR until the victim begins breathing or help arrives.
When to call a Doctor
In all instances, even if the victim is revived, they must be taken to the hospital. Complications, such as pneumonia, have been known to develop much later, and only a physical examination can reveal such problems before they become critical.
Prevention Techniques
- Never swim alone.
- Take swimming lessons.
- Install a fence with a self-latching gate all the way around backyard pools and hot tubs.
- Keep rescue equipment near the pool and post emergency numbers at the nearest phone.
- Supervise children in a bathtub, wading pool, etc., at all times and drain after use.
- Remember, children can drown in only a few inches of water.
Back to First Aid.