Breathing Problems 5.4 Drowning


Around 150 people drown in the UK each year. Drowning occurs when water enters the lungs causing the throat to go into spasm blocking the airway. The actual amount of water that enters the lungs may be small but the irritation it causes in the lungs leads to a build up of fluid which prevents the efficient transfer of oxygen from the lungs into the blood. This may be immediate or it may take up to 72 hours to occur, this is known as secondary drowning.


If you suspect someone has drowned and it is safe to do so rescue them from the water.


Treatment If they are conscious lie them down with their head lower-most and tilted to one side to allow water to drain out of their mouth, keep them warm to prevent Hypothermia, and call 999/112 because of the risk of secondary drowning.


If they are unconscious and breathing normally – place in the recovery position and keep warm, call 999/112 and monitor.


If they are unconscious and not breathing normally – Begin CPR but with 5 initial breaths before you start compressions.


After performing CPR for one minute, if you are alone go and call 999/112 for an ambulance, then return and continue CPR as normal until an AED arrives.


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