Swimming – Can you save a Life?
The Red Cross has a program that asks people “Can you save a Life if someone is drowning?”.
Can you?
I feel there are two reactions from people. People who do it…and People who freeze. People who freeze may know what to do, but they are stuck in this limbo. Training helps!
Learn how to save someone!
First things, we should all know the sequence of critical water safety skills, also known as “water competency,” are the ability to:
- Step or jump into the water over your head.
- Return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute.
- Turn around in a full circle and find an exit.
- Swim 25 yards to the exit.
- Exit from the water. If in a pool, be able to exit without using the ladder.
This will lesson your chance of trouble!
Let’s look at the five ways to save an active drowner:
1. Assess the situation
Determine whether the person is drowning.
- Determine whether the person is drowning.
- Shout for help.
- Decide which rescue method to use. Remain calm and figure out the best way.
- Proceed with the rescue. Stay calm and focused.
2. Performing a Reaching Assist
- Lie face down on the edge of the pool or dock.
- Locate the shepherd’s crook. Brace yourself (stay a little way from the edge).
3. Performing A Throwing Assist
- Find a floating aid and toss it.
- Try throwing a rope.
4. Performing a Swimming Rescue
- You have to be confident about your swimming ability.
- Bring an aid, ie. life savior
- Swim to the person and use a tow the person back to land.
5. Caring for the Victim after the Rescue
- Assess the person’s ABCs – airway, breathing and circulation.
- Start CPR.
- Give breaths if person not breathing.
While I do anything to save someone in trouble, I do not know if I will be able to respond quick enough.