Know What Drowning Really Looks Like to Help Save Lives This Summer

If movies are any indication, a drowning person will thrash around wildly in the water, possibly scream out for help, or wave someone over. However, as Slate points out, that's completely wrong, and drowning doesn't look anything like people expect.

Drowning victims can't call out for help, they can't wave because drowning victims can't control arm movement, and their body remains upright. So, what does a drowning victim look like? Slate suggests looking for these signs:

Head low in the water, mouth at water levelHead tilted back with mouth openEyes glassy and empty, unable to focusEyes closedHair over forehead or eyesNot using legs—verticalHyperventilating or gaspingTrying to swim in a particular direction but not making headwayTrying to roll over on the backAppear to be climbing an invisible ladder

Of course, if someone is yelling for help, they still need it, but it doesn't mean they're drowning. With pool season in full swing, it's good to have a grasp on what drowning looks like so you can seek our assistance when you need it. Brushing up on your CPR skills is a good idea as well. Head over to Slate for a bunch more information.

Drowning Doesn't Look Like Drowning | Slate

Photo by Tony Bernard.

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