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Know the Signs of a Person Drowning

Swimming is a fun and healthy activity for people of all ages. Whenever there is water present, there is also the risk of drowning. Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional deaths every year in the United States and most of these deaths are preventable.

At Backyard Oasis, we want you to have a safe and enjoyable swimming season. Here are a few safety guidelines to follow and the signs to recognize when a person is drowning. You can save a life by bearing the following in mind:

Water Safety Guidelines

  • Always supervise children around the pool. Never let yourself become distracted because drowning occurs quickly, in as little as 20 seconds.
  • Have life jackets on hand and make sure that those who aren’t strong swimmers use them.
  • Never allow running on the pool deck.
  • Enroll your children in swim lessons with a strong focus on water safety.
  • Talk to your children about water safety and make sure they understand why it is so important.
  • Learn CPR.
  • Refrain from drinking alcohol when swimming, or especially when supervising.
  • You are the lifeguard of your pool.

The Signs of a Person Drowning

  • Drowning in real life is not like it is portrayed in the movies. It is usually silent and quick, so it is important to never let your attention waver when supervising at the pool. A few of the telltale signs that someone is drowning, or about to drown, are as follows:
  • The person is either face down or their head or mouth is underwater.
  • The person is either motionless or struggling to get above the water.
  • Their head is tilted back. This is a natural response to drowning as the person struggles for air and the lungs are full of water.
  • The drowning person will often look like they are doggy paddling in place or like they are trying to climb an invisible ladder.
  • There is evidence of head or neck trauma.
  • If the person is struggling to breathe or hyperventilating.
  • Their eyes are closed, or they look glassy or vacant.
  • Their hair is covering their face.

If you see any of these signs of drowning, rescue the person immediately. You do not have time to call 911, so shout for someone else to call for emergency services while you save the person. It’s also important to maintain your own safety while rescuing someone from drowning.

We take water safety seriously at Backyard Oasis. We want you to have the best summer ever and a happy swimming season. Give us a call if you have any questions or visit our store at 2200 US Hwy 190 W in Livingston, TX.