Compassion for Life/Disaster Relief Servants

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WHAT TO DO IN A DROWNING EMERGENCY AND PREVENTION TIPS

IN THE CASE OF A DROWNING:

  • Call 911.
  • Remove the victim from the water any possible way.  If conscious, use a pole, rope or a piece of clothing to pull the victim from the water.  A panicked victim can grab a rescuer and pull them down causing them both to drown.  If the victim is unconscious, be careful not to move the head and neck if there is a question of a head or neck injury.  Do nothing if the person is talking or breathing.
  • If the victim pulled from the water is not talking or breathing, and you know CPR, begin and do not stop until the paramedics arrive to take over.
  • If you cannot locate the individual due to the water depth, such as that of lakes, rivers, etc., call 911 and a search team like “Search One Rescue Team” @   1-800-293-7248.

DROWNING INTERVENTION:

  • Teaching children and adults to swim is an important intervention in the prevention of drowning accidents.
  • Education about the risks of swimming in particular conditions is also essential to reduce the effects of drowning.
  • Refraining from swimming beyond your skill level.
  • Constant, uninterrupted, adult supervision of children around all forms of water including small bodies of water like bathtubs, buckets, etc.
  • Never swim alone or in an unsupervised place.  Teach children to always swim with someone present.
  • Lifeguards on duty at public swimming areas.
  • Inflatable life jackets for children and adults with low swimming skills, when bathing or in open waters.
  • Refrain from alcohol consumption before and while swimming and boating.
  • Ensuring that suction outlets in pools, hot tubs and spas are safely constructed and made at a safe level.
  • Adequate rescue aids on boats and ships with the proper training of the crew in rescue procedures and relate that information to the passengers.
  • Learning CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation), which is taught at the hospital and by other trained professionals.  This is particularly important for pool safety for individuals who regularly participate in water recreation.
  • Check the water depth before entering to ensure that you are swimming at an appropriate level for your abilities.