How to Handle Aquatic Emergencies: A First Aid Guide for 2025

Understanding Aquatic Emergencies

Water-related emergencies can occur anywhere, from swimming pools to open seas. Being equipped with essential first aid skills can mean the difference between life and death. In this guide lifeguard course, we outline the most effective lifesaving techniques to manage aquatic emergencies in 2025.

Recognizing Common Aquatic Emergencies

1. Drowning

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death worldwide. Victims may struggle on the surface or silently sink underwater. Immediate action is critical.

First Aid Steps:

• If safe, attempt a reach, throw, or row, but do not go rescue.

• Call emergency services immediately.

• If the victim is unconscious, carefully pull them out of the water.

• Begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) if the victim is not breathing.

2. Near-Drowning

Survivors of near-drowning incidents may still experience complications such as fluid in the lungs.

First Aid Steps:

• Ensure the victim is breathing.

• Monitor for delayed drowning symptoms, including coughing, chest pain, or confusion.

• Seek medical attention, even if the person seems fine.

3. Secondary Drowning

Secondary drowning occurs when water remains in the lungs, leading to delayed respiratory distress.

First Aid Steps:

• Observe for trouble breathing, persistent coughing, or fatigue.

• Keep the person upright and encourage deep breathing.

• Get emergency medical help immediately.

Responding to Specific Water-Related Injuries

1. Hypothermia

Cold water can rapidly lower body temperature, leading to hypothermia.

First Aid Steps:

• Remove the person from the water and replace wet clothes with dry, warm layers.

• Wrap the victim in blankets and provide warm (not hot) fluids.

• Avoid rubbing the skin, as it can cause further damage.

2. Water Inhalation and Aspiration

Water inhalation can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to breathing difficulties.

First Aid Steps:

• Encourage the person to cough.

• If breathing becomes difficult, call emergency services.

3. Jellyfish and Marine Animal Stings

Jellyfish stings can cause severe pain, allergic reactions, and even cardiac arrest in extreme cases.

First Aid Steps:

• Rinse the area with seawater (not freshwater, as it may worsen the sting).

• Apply vinegar to neutralize the venom.

• Remove tentacles carefully with tweezers.

• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Basic Life Support for Aquatic Emergencies

Performing CPR on a Drowning Victim

If a person is pulled from the water and is not breathing, immediate CPR is essential.

Steps for CPR:

1. Check for breathing and pulse.

2. If no pulse, begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute.

3. Give two rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.

4. Continue CPR until medical professionals arrive.

Using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Many public pools and beaches have AEDs available. If a drowning victim experiences cardiac arrest, use an AED as soon as possible.

Steps:

• Turn on the AED and follow voice instructions.

• Place the pads on the victim’s chest as directed.

• Ensure no one is touching the victim before delivering a shock.

• Continue CPR as instructed by the AED.

Preventing Aquatic Emergencies

1. Water Safety Rules

• Never swim alone.

• Always supervise children near water.

• Avoid alcohol consumption while swimming or boating.

• Wear life jackets when engaging in water sports.

2. Learning First Aid and CPR

Taking a certified first aid and CPR course prepares individuals to respond effectively to aquatic emergencies.

3. Identifying Safe Swimming Areas

• Swim in designated areas with lifeguards present.

• Be aware of rip currents and underwater hazards.

Emergency Response Strategies for Different Water Environments

1. Swimming Pool Emergencies

Swimming pools are common locations for slips, falls, and drowning incidents.

Prevention and Response:

• Keep the pool area dry and slip-free.

• Install proper barriers and alarms to prevent unsupervised access.

• Have a first aid kit and floatation devices readily available.

2. Beach and Ocean Emergencies

The ocean poses unique dangers such as rip currents, waves, and marine life.

Prevention and Response:

• Learn how to identify and escape rip currents.

• Check weather and tide reports before swimming.

• Avoid swimming at night or in areas without lifeguards.

3. Boating and Open Water Emergencies

Accidents on boats can result in drowning, hypothermia, or injury from collisions.

Prevention and Response:

• Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

• Ensure all passengers know basic emergency procedures.

• Keep a marine radio or cell phone for emergencies.

In Closer

Being prepared to handle aquatic emergencies is crucial for safety. Immediate first aid, CPR training, and preventative measures can save lives. Whether at a pool, beach or on a boat, knowing how to respond effectively makes all the difference.