How to Recognize and Save a Drowning Individual

• Look out for signs of active drowning. The individual may struggle on the surface for 20-60 seconds and then stay upright in the water with their head tilted back.
• Always carry a flotation device or shepherd's crook when performing a rescue. If you can reach the person, offer the crook for them to grab onto.
• If you need to swim to the person, approach them from behind. Place your arms under their armpits and guide them onto the rescue tube.

• To diligently scan and observe, allocate a few moments every couple of minutes to assess your surroundings. Observe the water and also scrutinize the pool deck or shoreline. Stay alert for individuals in distress or precarious situations. For instance, if someone is swimming far from shore in turbulent waters, it's crucial to keep a vigilant watch. Pay special attention to the elderly and young swimmers.
• This is particularly crucial when accompanied by children or other non-proficient swimmers.

• Active drowning can commence within 20 seconds of the individual experiencing distress. An actively drowning individual won't be capable of calling for assistance.
• Although an actively drowning individual might still be vertical in the water, they won't be able to propel towards help or safety.
• Actively drowning individuals won't be able to signal for help or reach for assistance. Once drowning initiates, the individual loses voluntary control over arm movements.
• Actively drowning individuals typically struggle on the surface for 20-60 seconds before submersion.
• Actively drowning individuals will tilt their heads back, instinctively keeping their mouth and nose above water.

• A passive drowning victim is someone who is unconscious in the water. Assume the individual requires medical attention and immediately summon help.
• A fatigued swimmer might exhibit short, feeble strokes and seem to be seeking something to cling to. They may call for aid.

• Onlookers might also be able to aid in the rescue if you encounter difficulties.
• If the drowning individual is unconscious, ensure someone contacts emergency services immediately.

• Do not attempt a rescue unless you're a proficient swimmer and know what you're doing. Weak swimmers risk endangering themselves and the victim. Even strong swimmers should utilize a flotation device. Most professional lifeguards carry one.

• Always have a flotation device with you. It's essential in case of problems or fatigue, and to support the victim.
• If available, use a rescue tube; they're the easiest for rescues.

• If you're experienced, extend the pole and aim the loop around the victim, then pull them to shore.
• Don't attempt this if you're unfamiliar, as it may cause panic.

• Turning victims away from the shore may increase panic and risk.
• Avoid wasting time with instructions; the victim can't control their movements.

• Approach the victim from behind, place your arms under their armpits, and flip them onto the device, ensuring your head remains out of harm's way. Keep the rescue tube between you and the victim. Try to reassure them of your presence and assistance.
• Practice this maneuver beforehand in a pool with a volunteer friend or family member.
• Practice swimming from behind and securely lifting the 'victim' onto the tube.

• Ensure constant supervision of the victim as you tow them, ensuring their stability on the flotation device. Adjust their position if needed.
• If the device is easily graspable, tow the victim by holding onto the device while swimming.

• Check for breathing by listening near their mouth or observing their chest movements.
• If no breathing is detected, check for a pulse on the wrist or neck. Initiate CPR if no pulse is detected.
• Perform chest compressions at a rate of at least 100 per minute, being prepared for possible rib fractures.
• Reassess breathing and continue CPR if necessary. It's crucial to undergo CPR training for proficiency in this technique.

• Know your swimming capabilities; avoid rescue attempts if you can't swim 50 yards with ease using breaststroke or front crawl.
• Ensure you can tread water for at least 2 minutes without difficulty. Some standards recommend treading water with a 10 lb weight for 2 minutes. Inadequate ability indicates insufficient swimming strength for successful rescues.

• Bring a cell phone to the pool or beach for emergency calls. In case of an emergency, designate someone to call EMS immediately.
• Ensure non-swimmers wear life vests.
• Stay vigilant of your surroundings, even if not swimming, as accidents can occur on shorelines or pool sides. Watch for accidental falls into the water.

• Avoid swimming in natural water bodies during adverse conditions, such as strong winds and waves in lakes.
• Steer clear of aggressive ocean tides; heed warning signs or flags indicating hazardous conditions.

• Supervise children around water at all times.
• Implement the buddy system to ensure children never swim alone.
• Equip child-sized life vests for boating trips.
• Commence swim lessons as early as age 1.

Ensure constant supervision of children around water. If there's a pool, secure it with a locked gate to prevent accidental falls. Enroll infants in swim lessons to equip them with water safety skills.

• Do not attempt a rescue if you're unable to swim. Trying to rescue without swimming ability isn't beneficial to the victim or safe for yourself.
• Seek assistance or throw a flotation device to the victim.

• Avoid attempting a 'heroic rescue' if you're unprepared. The risk outweighs any semblance of heroism.