Drowning

Drowning is death due to asphyxia caused by immersion in fluid, usually water. Near drowning is initial survival of a drowning accident which can lead to serious secondary complications including death; cases of near drowning therefore require attention by medical professionals. Secondary drowning is death due to chemical and biological changes in the lungs after a near drowning incident or exposure to chemicals. In many countries, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under 14 years old.

Prevention

• Learn to swim and arrange for your family to learn to swim!
• Children should never be unsupervised while in or near water.
• Supervised swimming facilities with lifeguards should be preferred over swimming locations without supervision.
• Swimming alone should be avoided. Swim accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Never enter deep water if you cannot swim.
• Never rely on swimming aids, since they may fail.
• Never swim while drunk or after a big meal.
• Wear a lifejacket while enjoying water sports such as sailing, surfing, or canoeing.
• Pay attention to the weather and water conditions, especially currents. Currents always look weaker from the outside!
• Never pretend to be a drowning victim, unless all bystanders are informed that this is an exercise.
• Learn and practice water rescue if possible.
• Never dive into shallow or cloudy water. Always check depth and safety before diving. If you dive head first, stretch your arms to the front to reduce injuries to the head if there is a collision.
• Do not walk on frozen lakes, rivers or oceans unless the ice is thick enough over the entire area walked on.
• Do not handle electric powered devices in or near the water.
• When boating, ensure your boat is operational and emergency equipment is onboard.