Tips to prevent drowning - first aid
stylised image of person rescuing another in the water
Stop, Think, Act: The Key to Saving Lives in Emergencies
At Gungahlin First Aid, we're passionate about equipping people with the skills and knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies. One of the most critical principles we teach in our first aid courses is the need to stop, think, and act before rushing into a situation. This approach is particularly vital when responding to water emergencies like drowning, where every second counts, but rushing in without a plan can put both the rescuer and the victim at risk.
The Reality of Drowning in Australia
Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental deaths in Australia. Over the past five years, an average of 280 people have drowned each year, according to data from the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report. Tragically, many of these incidents occur during recreational activities, often involving friends or family members. Rips, sudden changes in water depth, and strong currents are common contributors to these emergencies. Too many accidents happen at home with the swimming pool or spa, so it isn't just holidaying down our wonderful coast.
Stop and Assess the Situation
When faced with a drowning emergency, your immediate reaction might be to jump in and help. However, it's essential to stop and assess the situation first. Ask yourself:
Is the environment safe for you to enter?
Are there tools or flotation devices nearby that can assist in the rescue?
Can you call for additional help, alert lifeguards, or stronger swimmers if available?
Think Before You Act
Once you've assessed the situation, consider the safest way to approach the rescue. In many cases, a friend or family member is in trouble, and emotions can run high. However, acting without a clear plan can lead to more harm.
One life-saving tip is to bring a flotation device with you. This could be an inflatable object, a pool noodle, or even an esky lid. Flotation devices assist the victim and provide added safety for you as the rescuer. Remember the saying, "Reach, throw, don't go" – try to reach the victim with an object or throw something to them before entering the water yourself.
Act with Confidence
If you need to enter the water, approach the victim calmly, keeping the flotation device between you and them. Panicking individuals may grab onto rescuers, making it difficult to maintain control. Once the person is safely out of the water, assess their airway immediately. If they have ingested water, place them in the recovery position to help clear their airway and prevent further complications. Monitor their breathing and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
Be Prepared: Learn First Aid Skills
Emergencies like drowning highlight the importance of first aid training. At Gungahlin First Aid, we offer comprehensive courses tailored to everyday Australians. Whether you're looking to build confidence in responding to water emergencies or learn advanced skills like advanced resuscitation, where we teach how to use more advanced techniques like oxygen therapy and bag valve masks, our small, hands-on classes provide a supportive environment to learn and practice life-saving techniques.
Together, We Can Save Lives
Stopping, thinking, and acting with a clear plan can make all the difference in an emergency. By learning these critical first-aid principles, you can be prepared to help a loved one in need while keeping yourself safe. Join the Gungahlin First Aid family today and gain the skills to make a real difference in your community.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember: Stop. Think. Act.