Drowning
What are the warning signs?
If a person seems to be drowning then there are a few key signs to look for. They may be thrashing around in the water and screaming, their head may be dropping below the water line, or they may be struggling to stay afloat in rough seas. If any of these signs are visible then it is best to proceed in saving them as it is better to presume the worst and work from there. How to help the victim? If there is lifeguard in the area then it is best to notify them and go and get help. However if you are alone with the victim then you have to call the ambulance straight away and then save them by yourself. The first step would be to get them out of the water, but if going into the water poses as a threat to yourself then you must use a rope or other device to try and retrieve them from the water. When entering the water and retrieving the person, use the appropriate tow for the situation. You must be wary of a spinal injury. Once they are out of the water then check if the airway is blocked or being obstructed, using the pistol grip, and if it is then you must remove the foreign object using two fingers in a scooping method inside the victims mouth. The next step is to check for breathing in the victim. Go up close to their chest to check if it is rising or falling, you can also listen near the mouth and feel if any air is coming out. If the person is not breathing then check their pulse for 10 seconds and if there is no pulse then you have to place the person on their back and start on CPR. It is important to do the correct CPR for a adult or child, for detailed instructions please refer to the CPR page. This process must be repeated until the person starts breathing again, or until someone who is more skilled at CPR then you takes over. If the person gives a response at any stage during this process then stop the CPR and place them into the recovery position and comfort them until help arrives. |