Drowning

It has been estimated that 80% to 90% of all drownings are preventable.[14]Lunetta P, Modell JH, Sajantila A. What is the incidence and significance of "dry-lungs" in bodies found in water? Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2004 Dec;25(4):291-301. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15577518?tool=bestpractice.com [34]Quan L, Pilkey D, Gomez A, et al. Analysis of paediatric drowning deaths in Washington State using the child death review (CDR) for surveillance: what CDR does and does not tell us about lethal drowning injury. Inj Prev. 2011 Feb;17 (Suppl 1):i28-33. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21278094?tool=bestpractice.com People prone to seizures or cardiac arrhythmias should swim only with an observant partner. Alcohol should be avoided during all water sports, boating, or swimming activities. Parents should always supervise young children when bathing or swimming.[35]Denny SA, Quan L, Gilchrist J, et al. Prevention of Drowning. Pediatrics. 2019 May;143(5):e20190850. https://www.doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-0850 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30877146?tool=bestpractice.com Pool enclosures and early swimming lessons can also prevent accidental drowning in childhood.

Measures for all ages include:

• Learn about water safety; be aware of personal limitations, and always swim in a lifeguard-supervised area or with someone able to help you

• Ask the lifeguard for safe places to swim or play

• Read and follow warning signs posted on the beach and around the pool

• Do not drink alcohol before swimming

• Do not dive into shallow water or water of unknown depth

• Wear a life jacket in and around water and when boating if a weak or non-swimmer

• Learn to swim

• Do not attempt to rescue a drowning person unless you can do so safely.

For infants, toddlers, and young children:

• Ensure 100% "touch" supervision in or around water by a parent or adult capable of performing a rescue (i.e., within arm's reach)

• Use appropriate yard and pool fencing; fencing should enclose the entire pool area

• Avoid inflatable swimming aids because they may instill a false sense of security

• Be sure that swimming pools have 2 drains fitted with anti-vortex covers (to prevent hair or appendages becoming entangled in the drain mechanism)

• Infants and young children should wear life jackets in and around water unless being supervised or learning to swim.

For teenagers and adults:

• Swim with others and always in the lifeguards' area

• Avoid alcohol or drug consumption while in and around water

• Consider pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., epilepsy) when engaging in water activities, and whether enhanced supervision or additional water safety measures may be necessary.

For older adults:

• Consider medical issues and adverse effects of drugs when engaging in bathing or water activities

• Practice safe entry and exit from bathtub, by using handrails and nonslip mats

• Communicate with family or caregivers when bathing in the home for safety.