Preventing summer tragedies: Essential tips for water safety
On hot days, many of us seek relief from the water. However, many people who choose this form of relaxation forget about common sense and safety rules, which can result in tragedy. Many of these incidents could have been prevented if we knew how to behave and how to provide help to a drowning person safely. It's better to be informed in advance.
8:41 PM EDT, June 27, 2024
Statistics indicate that men drown most often. Just last year, they accounted for about 85 percent of all cases. Drownings most frequently occur in rivers and lakes, and the victims are usually good swimmers. Although many of us assume that non-swimmers are the ones who drown most often, this belief is mistaken. Many drowning victims are lost due to bravado, alcohol, or drugs.
Many tragedies could be avoided if we exercised common sense, didn't overestimate our abilities, and, most importantly, didn't combine water relaxation with alcohol and other substances. It's also crucial to remember how to behave when you see someone drowning.
It's important to remember that drowning people do not scream or call for help because they don't have the strength. Therefore, it is worth knowing what to look for.
A drowning person can be recognized by making uncoordinated movements in a vertical position. This causes the water around the drowning person to become frothy. They usually try to keep their head above the surface, which may disappear and reappear.
As " Radio Zet indicates," the first 60 seconds are crucial when the drowning person is still above water. Later, they will disappear below the surface, and rescuing them may become impossible.
How to help a drowning person?
If we notice a drowning person, we should call 911 as quickly as possible. We can do this ourselves or ask others to do it. If the swimming area is guarded, we should immediately notify the lifeguard.
Do not jump straight into the water to help. It is safer to throw a lifebuoy or a rope to the drowning person. If possible, approach them with a boat. It's important that when providing help, you do not get close to their arms so that in panic, they do not grab you and pull you down. A rescuer can quickly become a victim.
It is also essential to prevent the victim from "breathing water." We should get them to the surface as quickly as possible. If the person is not breathing or is unconscious, a rescue breath can be given after getting them to the surface. If necessary, continue resuscitation on the shore until taken over by arriving rescuers.
