Drowning

Drowning is a critical emergency situation that requires immediate action. If you encounter someone who is drowning or has drowned, follow these steps for first aid:

1. Assess the Situation:

- Ensure your safety and the safety of bystanders before attempting a rescue.
- Call emergency medical services (119 or your local emergency number) for professional help as soon as possible.

2. Reach or Throw, Don't Go:

- If the person is still conscious and struggling, try to reach them with a long object (e.g., a pole, rope, or clothing) or throw something that can help them stay afloat (e.g., a lifebuoy, inflatable toy, or empty container). Do not enter the water yourself unless you are a trained lifeguard or have proper rescue equipment and training.

3. Rescue Breathing and CPR:

- If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, you need to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary
Resuscitation). Begin with chest compressions followed by rescue breaths.
- If you're not trained in CPR, follow the dispatcher's instructions on the phone, if available. Otherwise,
provide chest compressions only until professional help arrives.

4. Remove from Water:

- Once you have reached the person, if they are unresponsive but still breathing, turn them onto their
side in a recovery position to help clear water from their airway. If they are not breathing, begin CPR.

5. Provide Oxygen and Cover:

- If you have access to oxygen and are trained to use it, provide supplemental oxygen if available.
- Keep the person warm with blankets or clothing to prevent hypothermia.

6. Monitor and Reassure:

- Continuously monitor the person's breathing and pulse while waiting for professional medical help.
- Provide reassurance and support to the person and any bystanders.

It's crucial to remember that performing first aid for drowning can be physically and emotionally demanding. If you are not trained in water rescue or CPR, focus on calling for professional help and following the instructions provided by emergency dispatch. If you are trained in CPR and water rescue,
follow the appropriate steps to provide aid until medical professionals arrive on the scene. Prompt action can greatly increase the chances of a positive outcome for the person who has experienced drowning

345