02
Nov
2011
Saving a drowning person can be hazardous in itself so first try to rescue them without getting into the water.
Try to reach them with your hand or a pole, or throw them a lifebelt.
Get into the water only if there’s no alternative and it’s safe for you to do so. Approach the person from behind while trying to calm them down as you move closer.
A panicked victim can pull you down. Grab a piece of clothing or cup a hand or arm under the victim’s chin and pull the person, face up, to shore, if possible. Ensure that their head, neck and back are aligned – especially if you think that the person has spinal injuries.
Then take the person to the nearest warm, dry place and, without undressing them, lay them down on blankets or a coat.
Check their airway and breathing. Call an ambulance.
If they’re still breathing, put them in the recovery position; monitor their breathing all the time. Be prepared to give CPR if they stop breathing. If they’re unconscious, replace their wet clothing and insulate them from the cold.
They should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
Wait for an ambulance to take them to hospital, because even if they appear to recover there’s a chance that they may suffer from secondary drowning, where the air passages swell up. They may also need to receive treatment for hypothermia.
Source: Daily Mirror
