Drowning for Real!

As we approach the season where we can start enjoying a comfortable day out on the water, it’s a good time to refresh ones self on the hazard of drowning.  What to look for might be quite different from what you expect to see, especially as depicted in so many Hollywood movies. 

The process of drowning is typically quiet and subdued. No arms waving frantically overhead or body thrashing wildly, no screaming or yelling. A drowning victim typically cannot scream or yell as their body is in survival mode. They will be gasping for air, their mouths right at the surface and their heads possibly tilted way back. Their arms will be pushing down onto the water for support.

Don’t let loud, boisterous splashing detract you from the lone, passive, immobile swimmer – she/he might be your drowning  victim.

Like most dangers, the best safeguards against drowning is prevention – with barriers to control access to water (fences around pools, restricted swimming areas, etc.) and to have rescue devices (life ring buoys and rope) handy. Always make wearing a life jacket/PFD an on-water requirement, too.

If you need to personally rescue someone, try to get some form of floatation (seat
cushions, even a small, empty ice cooler) to them. Keep it between you  and the victim as they will attempt to crawl up anything that’s near.  Professionals are trained to deal with clinging victims, but as a novice rescuer, you could be pulled under as they try to climb up on top of you.

Another good way to help create a safe swimming environment, especially with kids, is to have a buddy system. Have kids pair up, count off in two’s and assign them that number. Use a whistle to  announce a “Buddy Check” drill and have each kid yell out their numbers. It helps them watch out for each other.

I highly recommend the life jackets and PFDs designed and made by the safety conscious pros at MTI Life Jackets. Quality material designed for utility and style. Check them out at www.mtilifejackets.com