How to Prevent Dry Drowning
When most people think of drowning, they think of someone drowning while he is in the water. There is another kind of drowning called dry drowning that is uncommon but can be easily prevented by using basic water safety. Dry drowning can occur within 24 hours of any water activity, such as swimming or skiing.
Instructions
Teach children proper water safety. Dry drownings occur when water that is swallowed pools in the bottom of the lungs. This causes a person to drown when she is out of the water. Teaching a child to keep her mouth closed and plug her nose when she is under water will help to prevent her from swallowing water. Set limits. Extreme fatigue is considered a sign that a dry drowning can occur within twenty-four hours of participating in a water sport. Setting limits on the amount of time children are in water can help to prevent dry drownings by ensuring that they aren't overly tired while they are in the water. Take regular breaks. If you are spending more than two hours participating in water activities, take at least a fifteen minute break every two hours. Use this time to have a snack and drink water. Children may swallow water when they are swimming if they are thirsty. Pay attention. Being vigilant when your child is swimming can prevent dry drowning, as well as other water-related injuries. You should watch to ensure that your child isn't swallowing water or trying to breathe under the water. In addition to that, make sure that your child is fully alert. Have your child cough. When liquids go down the wind pipe, a person's body coughs in response to the irritation of the fluid. Sometimes, this response fails. Once your child gets out of the water for the day, encourage him to cough every 15 to 20 minutes. If you notice a lot of fluid coming up with the coughs, contact your child's doctor.