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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Drowning: what to do

Drowning is the third most common cause of accidental death. It can happen not only in the sea and rivers but also in swimming pools and garden ponds, and even in the bath. Falling asleep in the bath through tiredness or being drunk can cause a fatal accident. A toddler can drown in just a few inches of water, so you must never leave a young child alone in the bathroom or anywhere near water, even if it is very shallow. Knowing what to do in a drowning incident, and doing it as effectively and quickly as possible, can save someone's life.

What is drowning?

Drowning is submersion in water causing death by suffocation. Most people die from "wet drowning", where water enters the lungs and rapidly causes respicatory failure and death. Sometimes a casualty may survive but deteriorate later from damage caused by fluid in the lungs ("secondary drowning"). "Dry downing" occurs when a smalI amount of water makes the upper airways go into spasm, causing suffocation Dry drowning can also cause cardiac arrest.

Prevention of drowning

To minimize the chances of an accidental drowning, follow these guidelines:
Children should be supervised when they are near water- at the beach, by a lake, a pond or paddling pool. Even competent swimmers should be watched Toddlers have drowned in minute amounts of water. Any water in the home should be kept covered even fish tanks and toilets.

Avoid alcohol if going for a swim. Many drownings are linked with excessive alcohol intake, especially in teenagers.

Fence off swimming pools and ponds. Make sure the gate is self-shutting and the catch too high for a child to reach.

Keep away from unfamiliar rivers, lakes or ponds, and never Dive into unexplored or shallow waters.

Ask the lifeguard on the beach about swimming conditions such as hidden currents or other hazards.

Never swim outdoors if there is a storm brewing, as the risk of lightning striking the water is high and lethal.