San Bernardino>>With summer approaching, many of us will be near the pools and beaches enjoying the cool, refreshing water with our families for the summer break.
Water safety is crucial during this time, and many should consider the risks and dangers even after our time at the pools. Flotation devices are essential, but are sometimes not even enough during these submersion injuries.
Recently, firefighters in Moreno Valley were able to resuscitate an 11-year old girl after a near drowning incident, but other children have not been so fortunate.
One of the many issues that parents should be concerned about during our time near the water is known as dry drowning. This occurs when the airways spasm when water is inhaled through the nose or mouth. It is an extremely rare issue, and accounts for nearly 1 to 2 percent of drowning accidents per year, but is very harmful when it takes place. This condition is more commonly known to happen in children than in adults and must be treated with medical attention as soon as indications of dry drowning are present. This condition is known to be present an hour after being out of water.
Another condition very similar to dry drowning is known as secondary drowning. This condition normally happens 1 hour to 24 hours after being out of the water. Secondary drowning occurs when water gets into the lungs, causing inflammation, and making it difficult for the body to convert oxygen to carbon dioxide. This is also considered a very rare condition, but the effects of it can be very harmful and deadly.
There are few signs to look for if you suspect one of these conditions to be present. Coughing, chest pain, trouble breathing, and lethargy are all common symptoms of both dry drowning and secondary drowning. A change in their behavior is another indicator, as they could be lacking oxygen to the brain. Seek medical attention if any of these signs are present in children after they have been swimming.
Water safety should always be a concern for parents, and children should be supervised at all times and wear floatation devices when needed. By ensuring considerable measures of safety during and after being in water, the summer will surely be safe for all to enjoy.