Near drowning comes in two categories wet or dry. A near drowning is described as wet if the casualty has inhaled water into their lungs, and dry if the airway has closed due to spasms induced by water. The casualty will have pale, cool skin and possibly blue lips. They may also have absent respirations, a weak or absent pulse and may even be unconscious.

Action Plan

Do not attempt to save someone else if it means putting yourself in danger.

As soon as you are able to check the patient see if they are breathing, have a heartbeat and that their airway is clear, then if necessary begin resuscitation. If they begin to cough and splurt water from their nose and mouth, turn them onto their side to aid water removal from the lungs. Make sure you allow any swallowed water to drain out of the patient naturally. You should also treat the casualty for hypothermia and shock, ensuring that they are kept warm. If the patient is unconscious, but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position. All near drowning victims must see a doctor as soon as possible, as they must be checked for any water that may have got into their lungs, pneumonia, and ‘late drowning’, which can prove fatal.