Drowning

What is drowning and what can you do?

What does Drowning look like?

What do you think drowning looks like? Do you think of someone chest above the water, waving their arms and yelling for help? Though this is what we see in movies, this is not always the case. In fact, drowning can be quite difficult to spot. Here are some signs to look out for:

  1. Someone is facing towards the shore.
  2. Their head is bobbing up and down at water level.
  3. Their head is tilted back, trying to gasp for air.
  4. Their body is vertical in the water.
  5. They are in a "climbing ladder position". Paddling with their hands to try and stay afloat.
Picture depicting the 5 signs of drowning

Image by Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project

What should you do if someone is drowning?

  • Call 911. This should always be the first step. Calling Emergency Services first allows them to respond to the drowning accident faster! During this call, make sure to describe your current location in detail.
  • Keep your eye on the person. This helps emergency services locate the victim faster upon arrival.
  • Have someone locate a life ring. Unravel the rope around the string and throw the ring to the victim. Once they grab the ring, pull them towards shore.

    • What should you do if YOU are drowning?

    Remember the 3 F's. Flip, Float, and Follow.

    1. First, try to flip onto your back.
    2. Then, float on your back and try to catch your breath. This will help you conserve energy until help arrives. Do not panic!
    3. Finally, follow the safest way to safety. Do not go against the current. Instead, swim perpendicular to the current. If you feel to tired to swim, continue floating and try to get the attention of someone on shore.
    Diagram of Flip, Float, Follow

    Image by Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project

    How to prevent drowning?

    If you have read this page, you are in a good place to prevent drowning. Knowing how to recognize drowning is the first step to preventing it. Remember to always swim with a buddy and/or have a designated water watcher. This is an older adult who will be responsible for watching the water at all times. They should know the signs of drowning and what to do if someone is drowning. Share this page with your friends and family to help spread awareness!