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Drowning doesn’t look like drowning

Posted on | July 4, 2010 | 2 Comments

Via Magicmum.

day011/365-17-June-2010
Creative Commons License photo credit: Tomorrow Never Knows

I came across this blogpost. A must read for all parents and anyone who loves the beach, lake or pool.

A few points that really struck home with me:

Except in rare circumstances, drowning people are physiologically unable to call out for help.

Drowning people cannot wave for help.

Children playing in the water make noise. When they get quiet, you get to them and find out why.

Whilst we are all looking forward to a wonderful summer on the beach and in the water, it is no harm to keep the following in mind.

Look for these other signs of drowning when persons are n the water:

  • Head low in the water, mouth at water level
  • Head tilted back with mouth open
  • Eyes glassy and empty, unable to focus
  • Eyes closed
  • Hair over forehead or eyes
  • Not using legs – Vertical
  • Hyperventilating or gasping
  • Trying to swim in a particular direction but not making headway
  • Trying to roll over on the back
  • Ladder climb, rarely out of the water.

I, for one, shall be revisiting Mario’s blog when he uploads a short video along with a pool safety checklist next week.

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Comments

2 Responses to “Drowning doesn’t look like drowning”

  1. Musings of a Mother
    July 5th, 2010 @ 9:36 pm

    Some very useful tips thanks. As someone who lives on a canal bank it’s something I’m very conscious of.

  2. Manic Mammy
    July 5th, 2010 @ 9:57 pm

    Its definitely a parent’s worst nightmare. Theres no doubt kids love the water and its great for them to enjoy the beach and pool. I’m interested to discover if there are any lifesaving courses run in the locality as would consider doing one.

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