How to Help a Drowning Victim
Drowning victims are generally in a state of panic unless they are unconscious. If you must rescue a drowning victim who is still coherent, you must be careful not to put yourself in harm's way while attempting a rescue.Things You'll Need
- Rope or other object
Instructions
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Unconscious Victims
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If there is someone with you, send them for help or have them call 911.
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Get to the victim as quickly as you can. The quicker you can get to the victim, the greater chance he has at survival.
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Once you have the victim to a dry spot, lay him on his back and try not to move his head or neck excessively.
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Listen and look for breathing. If the victim has a pulse, begin rescue breathing. You will administer one breath every 6 to 8 seconds. If he does not have a pulse and isn't breathing, immediately begin CPR.
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Re-assess the victim every few minutes until emergency help arrives.
Conscious Victims
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Rescuing a conscious, panicking victim may prove to be challenging. Take precautions for your own safety if you have to do this. If you have a second person with you, send him to get help or call 911.
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Get to the drowning victim as soon and safely as possible. If the victim has a suspected spinal or neck injury, keep him in the water as long as it isn't freezing or a dangerous situation. Carefully float the body on top of the water until further help arrives.
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Let the victim know that you are trying to help him. If you don't suspect a spinal or neck injury, get the victim to dry land and assess the situation.
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If the victim is trying to spit up water, turn him over on his left side, also known as the recovery position.
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If you have the ability to transport the victim to the nearest emergency facility, do so. If not, wait until an emergency team gets out there to help you.
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Re-assess the situation every couple of minutes until emergency help arrives.
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If the victim goes into the cardiac arrest, begin CPR.
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