Spiral SearchDrowning: Recognize It, Respond and Prevent It
Drowning is quiet. Learn what it looks like, what to do, and four prevention steps.
If someone is drowning, call 911. Do not enter the water unless you are trained; reach or throw something instead.
General information, not medical advice. Reading a guide is not a substitute for a hands-on first aid or CPR class (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, and local fire-rescue departments offer them). If someone may be in danger, call 911 and follow the dispatcher.
Drowning looks different from what you expect
Drowning is usually quiet. The instinctive drowning response lasts only about 20 to 60 seconds, and the person cannot call for help or wave. Warning signs:
- Head tilted back with mouth at water level.
- Glassy or unfocused eyes.
- Body upright in the water with no leg movement.
- The person appears to be climbing an invisible ladder.
What to do
- Call 911 or have someone call. Send someone for an AED if possible.
- Reach or throw: use a pole, towel, rope or floating object. Avoid going in yourself.
- Get the person out and lay them on their back.
- If they are not breathing, start CPR. Rescue breaths matter in drowning, so give them if you are trained. See CPR.
- Place them on their side if they are breathing and vomiting.
- Seek medical evaluation even if they seem fine, because breathing problems can develop later.
Four ways to prevent drowning
- Active supervision: watch children closely in or near water without distractions such as a phone. Young children need an adult within arm's reach.
- Learn to swim: lessons lower risk, but supervision is still needed.
- Check drain covers in pools and spas to avoid suction hazards.
- Learn CPR. Training greatly improves survival.
Pools, canals, beaches and lakes are all hazards in Florida. Add fencing and barriers to home pools, and wear life jackets on boats.