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Do This Right Now

1

Get them out of the water

Remove the child from the water immediately. If you cannot safely reach them, throw a flotation device or use a pole. Do NOT jump in unless you are a trained rescuer.

Do not put yourself in danger. A panicking child can pull you under.

2

Call 911

Call 911 immediately or have someone else call while you start rescue steps. Every second counts.

3

Check if they are breathing

Lay them flat on their back on a firm surface. Look for chest movement. Listen for breathing. Feel for breath on your cheek. Take no more than 10 seconds to check.

4

If NOT breathing: start CPR

Give 2 rescue breaths first (tilt head back, lift chin, pinch nose, seal mouth, breathe in). Then 30 chest compressions. Continue 30:2 cycle. For infants, use 2 fingers for compressions.

Do NOT try to drain water from lungs. Start CPR immediately.

5

If breathing: recovery position

Roll them onto their side (recovery position) to prevent choking on vomit. Keep them warm with a blanket or towel. Stay with them until help arrives.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Call 911 or go to the ER if you see any of these signs

  • Child is not breathing
  • Child is unconscious or unresponsive
  • Child was underwater for more than a few seconds
  • Coughing or wheezing after water submersion
  • Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
  • Lips or skin turning blue
  • Confusion or lethargy after submersion
  • Vomiting after swallowing water

Normal After a Water Scare

These are usually reassuring signs

  • Brief splash with no water inhaled
  • Coughing up a small amount of water immediately
  • Alert and responding normally
  • Breathing normally within minutes
  • Playing and acting normally after the incident

Frequently Asked Questions

What is secondary drowning?

Secondary drowning (also called dry drowning) happens when water in the lungs causes breathing problems hours after the incident. It is rare but the reason we recommend medical evaluation after any significant submersion.

Should I do mouth-to-mouth if they are not breathing?

Yes. For drowning, start with 2 rescue breaths before compressions. Drowning victims need oxygen first. Then continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths.

How long should I monitor my child after a water incident?

Watch closely for at least 24 hours. Seek emergency care immediately if you notice coughing, difficulty breathing, unusual tiredness, or behavior changes.

Should I try to pump water out of their stomach?

No. Do not waste time trying to drain water. Start CPR immediately if they are not breathing. The priority is getting oxygen to their brain.

At what age can children drown?

Children can drown in as little as 2 inches of water. Infants and toddlers are at highest risk because they cannot right themselves if they fall face-down. Never leave young children unattended near any water.

This guide is for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or go to the ER.