Chapter 7 · First AidDrowning
Chapter 7 · First Aid

Drowning

1 min read

A person who is drowning almost never yells or waves their arms: they sink silently, with the head tilted back and the mouth at water level. Flash floods at low crossings are a frequent cause of death (see chapters 10 and 13).

  1. Don't jump into the water if you're not trained: the most likely result is two deaths. "Reach or throw, don't go": extend a branch, pole, towel, or rope, or throw something that floats (empty cooler, empty milk jug with the cap on, life preserver).
  2. Call 911.
  3. Once the person is out of the water, check whether they respond and whether they are breathing.
  4. If they aren't breathing: start CPR immediately; in drowning, rescue breaths are especially important if you know how to give them. Use the AED (dry the chest).
  5. If they are breathing: recovery position, keep them warm, and monitor. Anyone who nearly drowned, coughed a lot, or swallowed water should be checked by a doctor: breathing problems can appear hours later.