Drowning and water rescue: basics

In short: Drowning often happens silently and inconspicuously, quite differently from how it’s shown in films. Quickly recognising warning signs and acting correctly can save lives.

In more detail: Drowning people usually don’t have enough breath capacity to call for help and can barely use their arms to wave.

In detail

• Warning signs: An upright head position in the water, a fixed stare, and absence of leg movement indicate acute distress.
• Self-safety first: Never jump into deep water unsecured to rescue someone without considering your own safety.
• Using rescue aids: A life ring, pole, or rope allow helping without direct body contact in the water.
• Emergency call: Alongside the rescue, someone should always call 112.
• First aid after rescue: Resuscitation may be necessary after being pulled from the water, even if the person briefly seemed responsive.
• Secondary drowning: Symptoms can worsen hours after a near-drowning, so medical checking is important.
• Prevention: Swimming lessons for children and heeding warning flags at beaches significantly reduce the risk of drowning (schwimmen-technik-und-gesundheit, wiederbelebung-und-defibrillator-grundlagen).