What to Do If Someone Is Drowning
Drowning can happen in seconds and often goes unnoticed. Whether you’re at a beach, a pool, or even a bathtub, knowing what to do in such a life-threatening emergency can mean the difference between life and death. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from recognizing the signs to performing a rescue and administering first aid. Let’s dive in (pun intended) and make sure you’re prepared to act quickly, confidently, and safely.
Understanding the Signs of Drowning
Common Misconceptions About Drowning
When most people imagine someone drowning, they picture flailing arms, screaming, and calls for help. That’s what we often see in movies, but real-life drowning is far more subtle—and often silent. This dangerous misconception can cause people to miss the critical window to help.
Drowning victims usually can’t call out. Their airway is focused on trying to breathe, not speaking. They can’t wave because instinct forces them to press down on the water to keep their head above the surface. Understanding that drowning doesn’t look dramatic is step one in saving lives.
Recognizing Silent Drowning
Silent drowning is terrifying because it’s so easy to miss. Victims often appear to be treading water or simply bobbing. But there’s a big difference between swimming and struggling. Their mouth might dip below the surface, only emerging briefly to gasp for air. Their arms may be out to the side, pushing down, not flailing.
They won’t call for help, and they may only be able to keep their head above water for 20 to 60 seconds before going under completely. Watch for unnatural stillness, a blank stare, or a vertical body position. If it looks off, assume it is.
Key Visual Indicators of Distress
There are a few telltale signs that someone is drowning, even if they’re not shouting:
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Vertical position in the water with little or no leg movement
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Head tilted back, mouth open or bobbing at water level
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Glass-eyed, unable to focus, or eyes closed altogether
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Hair over the eyes or face for an extended time
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Uncoordinated arm movements, as if trying to climb a ladder
If you see any of these, don’t hesitate—act fast.
Assessing the Situation Quickly
Ensure Your Own Safety First
It’s heroic to want to help, but jumping in without a plan can make things worse. In fact, many well-meaning rescuers become victims themselves. Before doing anything, pause and take a second to ensure you’re not putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
Ask yourself:
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Is the water too deep, rough, or cold for me?
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Do I have anything to assist with the rescue, like a rope or flotation device?
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Is there anyone nearby who can help or call emergency services?
Rescuing is important—but not if it creates two victims instead of one.
Evaluate the Surroundings
Look around. Are there lifeguards on duty? Do you see a rescue pole, life ring, or floatation device? Are you at a pool, lake, ocean, or river? The environment will shape your response.
Ocean rescues, for instance, often involve currents and rip tides. A river might have strong undertows or debris. If you’re at a pool, assess if the victim is floating, sinking, or convulsing. The more you understand the scene, the better decisions you can make.
Determine the Victim’s Condition
Try to assess the person’s state. Are they conscious or unconscious? Floating or submerged? If they’re responsive but panicked, they might still be able to grab onto something you toss. If they’re unresponsive, the rescue becomes more urgent and complex.
Note their distance from the shore or poolside and whether they’re drifting. Can you reach them without entering the water? That should always be your first attempt.
Calling for Help Immediately
How and When to Call Emergency Services
Time is critical. As soon as you realize someone is in distress, call 911 (or your local emergency number). If others are nearby, point to someone specifically and say, “You! Call 911!” This creates accountability and avoids the “bystander effect,” where everyone assumes someone else will take action.
While one person handles the rescue, another should focus solely on contacting emergency services.
What Information to Provide
When calling 911, be clear and concise:
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Exact location (pool, beach, address)
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Description of the incident (“Person is drowning/unconscious in the water”)
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Condition of the victim if known (conscious/unconscious, breathing/not breathing)
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Your name and contact number
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Any known medical history if you have it (for example, if the person has epilepsy or asthma)
Stay on the line until help arrives or the operator says you can hang up.
Alerting Lifeguards or Bystanders
If you’re in a public place like a pool or beach, yell loudly and wave to get the attention of lifeguards or nearby people. Shout something specific like, “Someone’s drowning—get help!” If you see a lifeguard chair but no one there, look for emergency buttons or phones that connect directly to emergency services.
Also, ask bystanders to assist: one to call 911, another to grab flotation devices, and someone else to monitor the victim’s condition.
Safe Rescue Techniques
Reaching Techniques Without Entering the Water
The golden rule: “Reach or throw, don’t go.” Entering the water should be your last resort. Instead, look for ways to pull the person in:
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Use a rescue pole, long stick, towel, or even your leg if you’re lying down on the poolside.
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Lie flat to avoid being pulled in and extend the object.
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Encourage the person to grab it while you pull them toward you.
Never stand while pulling—they may unintentionally yank you in.
Throwing Devices or Flotation Aids
If reaching isn’t an option, throw something that floats:
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Life rings
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Kickboards
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Empty plastic bottles with lids
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Pool noodles
Even a cooler lid can buy precious time by keeping the person afloat. Aim near—but not directly at—the victim to avoid injury, and instruct them to hold on tightly.
When and How to Swim to the Victim
Only enter the water if you are a strong swimmer and have no safer options. Take a floatation device with you if possible and approach the victim from behind to avoid being grabbed in panic.
Keep talking to the victim: “I’m here to help, grab this!” Stay calm, and once you reach them, secure the flotation device between you both. Then kick back to shore or safety.
Administering First Aid After Rescue
Check for Breathing and Pulse
Once the person is out of the water, lay them flat on their back and check if they’re breathing. Look, listen, and feel for breath. Check the pulse at the neck or wrist. If they’re breathing and have a pulse, place them in the recovery position and keep them warm.
If they’re not breathing, begin CPR immediately.
Performing CPR if Necessary
Here’s a quick guide:
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Place your hands (one over the other) in the center of the chest.
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Push hard and fast, about 2 inches deep and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute (think “Stayin’ Alive” beat).
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After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths if trained.
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Continue CPR until emergency help arrives or the person starts breathing.
Treating for Shock and Hypothermia
Even if the person seems fine, they could be in shock. Signs include:
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Pale, clammy skin
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Rapid pulse or breathing
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Confusion or dizziness
Keep the person warm with towels or blankets and talk to them calmly. Don’t give them food or drink in case they need medical intervention.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Drowning Incidents
Supervision and Awareness
Prevention always beats emergency response. One of the most critical measures in preventing drowning is constant, focused supervision. Drowning happens quickly and silently, often when a child is left unattended even for just a minute. Whether you’re at a beach, pool, or bathtub, the rule is simple: if they’re in or near water, watch them. No distractions—no phones, no multitasking.
Designate a “Water Watcher” during gatherings. This person is solely responsible for monitoring swimmers for a set period—then rotate to avoid fatigue. This strategy ensures someone is always attentive.
Also, educate others about the subtle signs of drowning. The more eyes that know what to look for, the safer the environment becomes.
Swimming Lessons and Water Safety
Swimming is more than a recreational activity—it’s a survival skill. Everyone, especially children, should learn to swim. Organizations like the Red Cross and YMCA offer affordable, certified swim lessons tailored by age and skill level.
But swimming ability alone isn’t enough. Teach basic water safety principles like:
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Never swim alone.
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Don’t swim during storms or rough conditions.
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Always follow pool rules and lifeguard instructions.
Remember, even strong swimmers can drown in certain conditions—currents, fatigue, panic. Water safety is a combination of skill, caution, and respect for the environment.
Importance of Life Jackets
Forget the stigma—life jackets save lives. Whether you’re on a boat, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, wearing a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is essential.
Life jackets are especially vital for:
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Children
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Weak or non-swimmers
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Activities on open water
Make sure the jacket fits snugly and isn’t damaged. Blow-up toys, noodles, or water wings are not safety devices—they can give a false sense of security and quickly fail in emergencies.
Teaching Kids and Adults Water Safety Skills
Educating Children Through Play
Kids learn best when they’re having fun. That’s why integrating water safety into games and storytelling is an effective way to teach them critical skills. Use role-playing to practice spotting danger or pretending to call for help. Water-safety-themed songs, coloring books, and cartoons can also reinforce messages in a child-friendly way.
Start lessons early, even in the bathtub. Teach them to never go near water without an adult and explain why certain rules exist. Use repetition, positive reinforcement, and visual cues like posters to keep safety top-of-mind.
Most importantly, model good behavior. Kids mimic adults. If they see you wearing a life jacket, checking the water before swimming, and staying alert—they’ll adopt those habits too.
Adult Water Safety Programs
Adults are not immune to water-related incidents. Many can’t swim or overestimate their abilities. Offering community-based swim lessons for adults, especially in immigrant and low-income communities, helps reduce drowning risks significantly.
Adult courses focus on:
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Floating and basic strokes
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How to recognize and respond to danger
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Safe entries and exits in water
Confidence in the water doesn’t come overnight, but with consistent learning, anyone can become water-safe—at any age.
Building a Culture of Safety
Water safety shouldn’t be limited to the pool. It should be woven into everyday conversations at home, in schools, and in public messaging. Share articles, attend workshops, display safety tips around pools, and support organizations that promote awareness.
The more we talk about it, the more lives we save. Make safety cool—not optional.
Understanding Secondary Drowning
What Is It and How It Happens
Secondary drowning, also known as delayed or dry drowning, occurs when a small amount of water gets into the lungs—either from swallowing or inhaling during a near-drowning event. This water can cause inflammation and fluid buildup, making it hard for the lungs to deliver oxygen properly.
It doesn’t happen instantly. Symptoms can appear hours or even a day after the incident. And although rare, secondary drowning can be fatal if left untreated.
Symptoms to Watch For
If someone has been pulled from the water and seems okay at first, stay vigilant for these signs over the next 24 hours:
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Persistent coughing or wheezing
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Chest pain or trouble breathing
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Sudden fatigue or extreme tiredness
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Confusion or unusual behavior
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Vomiting (especially foam-like)
Even if symptoms seem minor, don’t take chances. Seek medical help immediately.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If someone had a near-drowning experience—even if they appear normal—observe them closely. If any breathing difficulty arises, go to the emergency room or call 911. Medical professionals may perform X-rays or monitor oxygen levels to detect fluid in the lungs early.
The sooner it’s caught, the better the outcome. Never dismiss post-water symptoms as just fatigue or stress.
Emotional Support After a Drowning Incident
Mental Health for the Rescuer and Victim
Drowning incidents don’t just affect the body—they take a toll on the mind. Survivors often deal with post-traumatic stress, fear of water, or survivor’s guilt. Rescuers, especially bystanders with no formal training, may replay the event and question their actions.
It’s normal to feel shaken, scared, or even angry after such a high-stress event. But it’s crucial to talk about it.
Encourage both rescuers and victims to speak to a counselor or join support groups. Sharing experiences with others can be healing and offer validation.
Trauma Counseling Resources
There are several ways to access support:
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Local mental health clinics
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Hospital trauma teams
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Online therapy platforms
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Nonprofits like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
Look for professionals trained in trauma or water-related phobias. Early intervention can prevent long-term issues like anxiety disorders or PTSD.
Talking Openly About the Experience
Silence fosters stigma. Having open, honest conversations about what happened can help everyone process the experience. Especially for children, allowing them to ask questions and express fears is part of emotional healing.
As a family or community, use the incident to reinforce safety practices, not assign blame. Focus on the fact that action was taken, lessons were learned, and most importantly—lives can still be saved because of what you now know.
Tools and Equipment That Can Help in Emergencies
Rescue Poles, Throw Bags, and Rings
Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in a drowning emergency. Keep these near any pool or waterfront:
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Rescue poles (shepherd’s crooks) for reaching out safely
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Throw bags filled with floating rope to pull victims in
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Life rings or buoyant cushions to toss to swimmers in distress
These tools should be easily accessible, not locked away or hidden. Mount them on visible hooks with clear signage. Regularly inspect and replace any damaged equipment.
Personal Floatation Devices
PFDs are essential not just on boats but also in lakes, rivers, and open waters. Make sure everyone has access to the right size and type—children need snug-fitting jackets, and there are special models for infants.
Label life jackets clearly and educate your group or family about how to properly wear and secure them. A loose or incorrectly worn PFD offers little to no protection.
Mobile Apps and Emergency Alert Tools
Technology can be a powerful ally in water safety. Some helpful tools include:
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Emergency alert apps like Red Cross First Aid or ICE
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Drowning detection wearables for kids that notify phones if submerged too long
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GPS-enabled lifeguard systems in smart pools
These aren’t substitutes for vigilance, but they can provide that extra layer of safety and peace of mind.
The Role of CPR and First Aid Certification
Benefits of Being Trained
Imagine being the only one standing between someone and death—and not knowing what to do. That’s a terrifying thought. But it’s also avoidable. Getting certified in CPR and first aid equips you with the confidence and knowledge to step in during emergencies, especially drowning incidents.
With training, you learn:
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How to perform high-quality chest compressions
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How to give effective rescue breaths
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When to use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
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How to manage shock, hypothermia, and unconsciousness
Beyond just learning, certification gives you credibility in emergencies, especially when instructing others. You’ll respond faster, stay calmer, and quite literally, save lives.
Where to Get Certified
There are many accessible options to get trained:
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American Red Cross – offers in-person, hybrid, and online courses
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American Heart Association (AHA)
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YMCA and local recreation centers
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Community colleges and hospitals
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Online training platforms like ProTrainings and CPR.io
Many programs complete in one day and are affordable (or even free). Look for certifications that are nationally recognized and include hands-on practice, not just theory.
Empowering Communities Through Training
One person trained in CPR can change the outcome of a tragedy—but imagine if every adult in your community had that power? Hosting neighborhood CPR drives, workplace training, or school safety workshops can create a network of prepared responders.
A well-trained community is a safer one. Let’s make life-saving knowledge as common as learning to ride a bike.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Someone Is Drowning
Jumping in Without a Plan
In the heat of the moment, instincts take over. Unfortunately, those instincts can be deadly if they lead to rash decisions. One of the most common mistakes people make is jumping into the water without any plan or equipment.
This impulsive action puts both the rescuer and victim at risk. Panicked drowning victims often cling tightly to rescuers, unintentionally pulling them underwater. Without a floatation device or training, even strong swimmers can drown during a rescue attempt.
Always assess first. Use the reach-or-throw methods. Enter the water only as a last resort—and bring a floatation device with you.
Not Calling for Help First
People often assume someone else will call 911. But that delay can cost valuable time. Always make calling for help the top priority, even before starting the rescue.
Don’t rely on others to take action. Either make the call yourself or point to someone directly and say, “You, call 911 now!” Assigning responsibility reduces confusion and ensures help is on the way while you assist the victim.
Failing to Administer Proper First Aid
Once someone is pulled from the water, many freeze or don’t know what to do. Some may skip checking the airway, breathing, or pulse. Others might wait for paramedics, thinking that’s the best option.
But seconds count.
If the person isn’t breathing, CPR must start immediately. Doing something is better than doing nothing. If you’re not trained, the 911 dispatcher will guide you. Chest compressions alone can keep blood flowing to vital organs until professionals arrive.
Even after revival, skipping medical attention is risky. Water in the lungs or hidden trauma might not show up right away. Always call for medical evaluation—even if the person “seems fine.”
Legal Considerations and Good Samaritan Laws
Your Rights When Giving Aid
Fear of legal repercussions stops some people from helping in emergencies. But that fear is largely unfounded, thanks to Good Samaritan Laws. These laws are designed to protect people who provide reasonable assistance to those who are injured, ill, or in danger.
If you act in good faith, without gross negligence, and don’t accept payment, you’re generally protected. This means you can perform CPR, assist with rescue, and call for help without fear of being sued if something goes wrong.
Protecting Yourself Legally
Here’s how to stay within legal protections:
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Always call emergency services
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Only provide aid you’re trained or guided to perform
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Don’t move the victim unless absolutely necessary (e.g., drowning risk, danger of fire)
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Never accept money or favors for your help
Keep a record of the incident if possible, especially if you’re involved in a public rescue or if someone declines medical attention.
State-by-State Differences
Good Samaritan laws vary slightly by state. Some states require you to act if you’re trained and witness an emergency. Others offer broader immunity. If you’re unsure, a quick check with your state’s health department or legal resources can clarify your rights.
In most cases, doing something is legally and morally safer than doing nothing. The law encourages help—not punishes it.
Real-Life Rescue Stories and What We Can Learn
Heroic Acts from Bystanders
Ordinary people often perform extraordinary rescues. Take the story of 10-year-old Davyon Johnson, who used CPR techniques he learned on YouTube to save a choking classmate. Or the case of a woman at a Florida beach who formed a human chain with strangers to rescue a family caught in a rip current.
These stories highlight one truth: you don’t need to be a lifeguard to save a life. Training, awareness, and courage make all the difference.
The real heroes are the ones who stay calm, act quickly, and prioritize safety.
Lessons from Tragedies
Unfortunately, not every story ends happily. Countless tragedies occur each year where someone drowns because no one noticed in time—or didn’t know what to do. In many of these cases, a few simple actions could have changed the outcome.
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Proper supervision
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Early recognition of distress
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Immediate CPR
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Prompt calling of emergency services
Let these tragedies motivate—not paralyze—you. Use them as powerful reminders of why water safety education is crucial.
How Awareness Saves Lives
Knowledge multiplies impact. One trained person can save one life—but that same person can teach dozens of others. Communities that prioritize education, prepare for emergencies, and promote safety see fewer drowning incidents and better outcomes when they do happen.
Every article read, every CPR class taken, every life jacket worn—it all adds up. Awareness isn’t just prevention. It’s empowerment.
Conclusion
When someone is drowning, every second matters—and so does every decision. Knowing how to spot the signs, respond safely, and administer life-saving aid can turn an ordinary bystander into a hero. But beyond rescue, the greatest power we hold is prevention. By promoting water safety, teaching skills early, and preparing our communities, we can stop these tragedies before they start.
Drowning is often silent—but our response doesn’t have to be. Let’s speak up, act smart, and stay ready.
FAQs
What is the first thing to do if someone is drowning?
Call for help immediately. Then attempt to rescue them safely using a reaching or throwing method without entering the water if possible.
Can you perform CPR in the water?
No. CPR should be performed on a firm, dry surface. First, get the person out of the water, check for breathing and a pulse, and begin CPR if needed.
How long can a person survive underwater?
Typically 3 to 5 minutes without oxygen can cause brain damage. After 10 minutes, survival is rare without severe complications.
What is secondary drowning and how serious is it?
Secondary drowning occurs when water enters the lungs and causes inflammation hours after rescue. It’s rare but potentially fatal—seek medical attention immediately if symptoms appear.
Should you always call 911 even if the victim seems okay afterward?
Yes. Internal injuries or fluid in the lungs may not show immediately. A full medical check is always recommended after a near-drowning.
DISCLAIMER:-This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and emergency treatment.
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