Men at most significant risk: The silent threat of drowning
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 is better to be informed.
Statistics indicate that men drown most often. Just last year, they accounted for about 85 percent of all cases. Drowning incidents most often occur in rivers and lakes, and those who drown are usually good swimmers. Although many assume that non-swimmers are the most frequent victims, this belief is mistaken. Many drowning victims lose their lives due to bravado, alcohol, or drugs.
Many tragedies could be avoided if we exercised common sense, did not overestimate our abilities, and, most importantly, did not combine relaxation by the water with alcohol and other substances. It is also important to remember how to behave when you see someone drowning.
It is important to remember that drowning people do not scream or call for help because they do not have the strength. Therefore, it is worth knowing what to look for.
A drowning person can be recognized by their uncoordinated vertical movements, which cause the water around them to become frothy. They usually try to keep their heads above the surface, which may repeatedly disappear beneath and reappear above the water.
As "Radio Zet" indicates, the first 60 seconds are crucial, as the drowning person is still above water. After this time, they may disappear below the surface, and saving them becomes more difficult.
How to help a drowning person?
If you notice a drowning person, call ambulance as quickly as possible. You can do this yourself or ask someone else to do so. If the swimming area is guarded, 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 is important that when providing help, you do not get too 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 important to prevent the victim from "breathing water." Get them to the surface as quickly as possible. If the person is not breathing or is unconscious, administer rescue breaths once you have brought them to the surface. If necessary, continue resuscitation on the shore until the rescuers arrive.
