Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
Drowning is quick and usually silent — not the splashing and shouting seen in films. A person who is drowning often has their head low in the water, mouth at water level, and cannot call for help.
Rescue without becoming a victim
Reach, throw, don't go. Reach with a pole or branch, or throw something that floats. Only trained rescuers should enter the water. Call your emergency number (in many coastal regions, ask for the coastguard).
Once out of the water
- If they are not breathing normally, open the airway and give 5 initial rescue breaths if you are trained.
- Start CPR: 30 compressions to 2 breaths. Compression-only CPR is better than nothing.
- Use an AED as soon as available; dry the chest first.
- If they are breathing, place them in the recovery position, keep them warm and monitor.
Everyone rescued from drowning should be medically assessed — breathing problems can develop hours later.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction