Watching someone struggle in the water can be terrifying. Whether you’re at a backyard pool, a public water park, or a swimming facility, recognizing and responding to a possible drowning incident can be the difference between life and death. While many people believe drowning looks dramatic, like someone yelling or splashing furiously, the truth is far different. In reality, drowning is often quiet and quick. The person may appear motionless or even upright in the water, with no apparent attempts to call for help.
In this guide, we will walk you through a clear, actionable process on what to do if you see someone drowning in a pool, from identifying the signs of drowning to safely rescuing the person and administering first aid. This isn’t just a survival guide—it’s a comprehensive overview that could one day provide you the knowledge and confidence to intervene and possibly save a life.
Recognizing the Signs of Drowning
Before any intervention can occur, the first and most crucial task is recognizing a drowning situation. Most drownings do not occur with loud distress or thrashing, as often portrayed in movies. In fact, the instinctive drowning response—a term coined by former lifeguard and contributor to Coast Guard Proceedings Magazine, Mario Vittone—describes the body’s automatic response when a swimmer is in immediate danger.
Key Physical Indicators of Drowning
Here are some subtle, yet important visual cues you can spot:
- Head low in the water, with the mouth at water level
- Head tilted back, with the mouth open as if gasping
- Unable to keep their body level—legs remain vertical with minimal kicking
- No forward motion, even though attempts to swim may be present
- No use of arms, which are sometimes extended laterally and pressing down to try to stay afloat
- Appears glassy-eyed or unable to focus, possibly showing signs of panic or fatigue
It’s important to remember that the early signs of distress may not include yelling or waving arms, especially in children. In many real-life scenarios, drowning victims are surprisingly quiet, making rescue all the more time-sensitive.
Immediate Actions to Take When You Spot a Drowning Person
Time is not just a factor; it’s the deciding factor in water emergencies. Here is a step-by-step process you should follow immediately once you suspect a person is drowning.
1. Alert Those Around You
The very first thing to do is call out for help. Inform others nearby that an emergency is happening. More eyes on the situation can help confirm that someone is in danger and it ensures that backup is available if you need it. If others are present in the pool area, assign someone specific to call emergency services (911 or local equivalent), especially if you feel your intervention might be time-consuming or risky.
Why It Matters:
- Quick medical attention can be critical
- You may need help retrieving rescue tools or performing CPR
2. Locate and Secure Rescue Equipment
If you are a trained lifeguard, or know the pool is equipped with lifesaving materials, grab them as you respond. Most public pools are equipped with reach poles, lifebuoys, or other flotation devices.
Best Tools to Use:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Lifebuoy | A flotation device thrown to the drowning victim |
| Reach Pole | Used to extend your reach to pull someone near the edge of the pool |
| Lifeguard Tube | A personal flotation device (PFD) used by rescuers to assist a drowning person |
Even if you’re not near equipment or your surroundings aren’t equipped, proceed to Step 3 without delay.
3. Attempt to Reach or Throw First—Enter the Water as a Last Resort
If you’re not trained in pool rescues, never jump into the water without assessing the situation. It can be dangerous, and emotional fear may impair judgment, risking both lives. Use the “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go” principle.
- If the person is near the edge of the pool, extend your reach using a long object: a broomstick, a towel, a noodle, or a wooden chair—anything that can assist them in grasping something and being pulled toward safety.
- If the person is further away, get a flotation device or anything you can throw (a kickboard, an inner tube, or even an empty plastic jug) to keep them afloat until help arrives or until you feel confident rescuing them.
4. Enter the Water Only If Necessary
If it becomes clear that the person cannot keep themselves afloat and no equipment is available, you must carefully evaluate your abilities before entering the water.
Safety Considerations Before Entering the Water:
- Swimming proficiency: You must be a confident swimmer, able to stay calm under pressure and swim a short distance safely.
- Emergency readiness: Ensure someone is calling for professional help before you enter.
- Stay focused: Panic can impair thinking. Approach with a clear intention to keep the drowning person’s head above water.
How to Safely Rescue a Drowning Person in the Pool
In a controlled environment like a pool, the mechanics of a rescue can be simplified compared to open water. But the principles remain the same: keep the person’s airway clear, maintain buoyancy, and secure them for safety.
Approaching the Victim
Once in the water, position yourself behind or off to one side of the victim to avoid being grabbed or pulled under unintentionally. If possible, use a floatation tool or give the person something to hold onto to keep them stable.
Key Techniques for Securing the Victim:
- Floating Toward the Victim: Hold out a floatation device as you approach to reduce stress on the victim. Let them grab onto it, easing your job to guide and pull them to safety.
- Armpit Tow: Loop one arm under the victim’s armpit and hold firmly while supporting their upper body as you tow them toward the pool edge.
- Wading Rescue: If the victim is in shallow water, wade toward them while keeping low and stable.
Delivering the Person to the Pool Edge
Once you have secured the person, move swiftly toward the nearest accessible pool edge. If others are near the pool, ask for assistance to lift the person out.
Lifting a Heavy or Unconscious Person:
- If alone, use the wall of the pool to help pivot the victim onto the side.
- With assistance, distribute the weight—someone lifts the torso while another takes the legs to bring the person safely onto the deck.
Providing Immediate First Aid and CPR After Rescue
If the person appears unresponsive, does not have a pulse, or isn’t breathing normally, administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can save their life. However, it’s important to understand what steps to take depending on severity.
Step 1: Check Responsiveness
Approach the person carefully. Look for breathing and responsiveness:
- Say something like, “Are you okay?”
- Tap or shake them gently.
If no response, determine if they are breathing by watching their chest for rising and falling for no more than 10 seconds.
Step 2: Call Emergency Services Immediately
If someone hasn’t already called for help, do so now. Provide clear, concise details about the location and nature of the emergency.
Step 3: Begin CPR, If Necessary
While CPR may seem daunting, many drowning victims can be revived quickly with prompt action. Here’s what to do:
CPR Steps in the Case of Drowning:
- Ensure the victim is on a flat, firm surface.
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest.
- Stack your other hand on top and interlace fingers.
- Perform 30 chest compressions at a depth of about 2 inches, at a pace of 100-120 per minute.
- Give two rescue breaths, making a seal over the mouth and ensuring the chest rises.
- Repeat the cycle until help arrives.
Keep in mind that if you’re unwilling or untrained in mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, hands-only CPR is still effective in many cases. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
When Help Arrives: Transitioning Care
Emergency services—including trained paramedics or lifeguards—may take over CPR as soon as they arrive. Your job here becomes helping the team by:
- Providing clear information on what happened and how long the person was in the water.
- Informing responders if CPR was initiated and how long you administered it.
- Staying calm and letting the professionals handle post-rescue care.
Real-World Scenarios and Appropriate Responses
Let’s assess a few real-world drowning situations and how to respond:
Scenario 1: Child Drowning in a Residential Pool
Children often drown quietly, unnoticed by even nearby adults. If you spot a child submerged:
- React immediately. Time is critical.
- If no rescue equipment is available, enter the pool, scoop the child to the surface while keeping their head above water, and move toward the nearest pool edge.
- Start CPR before calling help if you are alone and no one else is available—every second counts.
Scenario 2: Teenager in Distress During Pool Party
At social gatherings, drownings often go unnoticed due to loud music or distraction.
- Call attention to the emergency and assign someone to contact emergency services immediately.
- If the person is thrashing or unconscious, use a flotation device to reach them or enter the water to assist.
- Keep their head above water and avoid panic—remain calm and give clear instructions if others are helping.
Scenario 3: Adult Panic-Induced Drowning
Panicked adults frequently pull their rescuers under in their attempt to save themselves.
- Don’t jump in if they appear violent or uncontrolled.
- Use a floating device or extend a pole.
- Wait for professional lifeguards or emergency responders if the person is posing a danger to you or others.
Prevention and Preparedness: Your Role Before an Emergency Strikes
While response is crucial, prevention dramatically reduces the risk of drowning. By taking the following precautions, both individuals and communities can keep pool environments safe for everyone.
1. Learn CPR and Basic Water Rescue Skills
Many communities offer CPR and lifeguard training through schools, hospitals, and local fire departments. Consider certifications through the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association. These trainings typically include both hands-on practice and scenario evaluations to ensure you’re comfortable in an emergency.
2. Maintain Vigilant Supervision
Near water, there’s no such thing as a brief distraction. Assign a designated “Water Watcher” at pool gatherings, someone who watches for signs of struggle and remains alert and alcohol-free.
3. Teach Children Water Safety
From basic swimming lessons to instilling healthy respect for water bodies, children who understand risks are less likely to get into trouble.
4. Install Safety Equipment
Whether in your backyard or overseeing community facilities, ensure pools have:
- Fencing around the perimeter
- Alarm systems for doors leading to the pool
- Life-saving rings or poles readily accessible
- Clear, visible signs regarding supervision rules
Conclusion: Save a Life—Act Swiftly and Confidently
Knowing what to do if you see someone drowning in a pool isn’t just helpful—it’s potentially life-saving. The combination of quick recognition, immediate steps to secure the victim, and appropriate first aid can make all the difference in moments where every second matter.
Ultimately, preparedness is not merely a skill—it’s a responsibility. By learning how to identify drownings, equip yourself with lifesaving knowledge, and maintain strong awareness near the water, you empower yourself to become a lifeline for others. Whether you’re a parent, a pool owner, a swimmer, or simply an observer, your vigilance can turn an ordinary day into a life-changing moment.
You now have the tools and knowledge. The only question that remains is—will you act when it matters most?
What should I do first if I see someone drowning in a pool?
The first thing you should do is stay calm and quickly assess the situation. Determine whether the person is truly drowning or just struggling. A drowning person may not be able to call for help and might be gasping for air, flailing their arms, or submerged underwater. Check if they are responsive by shouting and asking if they need help. If they do not respond or appear unable to speak, treat the situation as an emergency.
Next, alert others nearby to call 911 or the local emergency number immediately. If there is a lifeguard on duty, notify them as they are trained to handle such situations. If no lifeguard is present and you are trained in water rescue techniques, prepare to enter the water with a flotation device if possible. If you are not trained, do not enter the water—instead, use a reaching or throwing assist from the safety of the poolside to help bring the victim to safety.
How can I safely rescue someone who is actively drowning?
Rescuing someone who is actively drowning requires caution to avoid becoming a victim yourself. If you are trained in water rescue, approach the person from behind if possible, using a rescue stroke or technique that allows you to maintain control. Use a flotation device such as a life jacket or rescue tube to provide support for both you and the victim, especially in crowded or turbulent water conditions.
Once you have reached the person, try to calm them if they are panicking. If they grab onto you, avoid struggling and attempt to position yourself in a way that allows you to support their head above water. If possible, perform a “swim-along” or “tow” technique to bring them safely to the edge of the pool or shallow water. If the person is unconscious, focus on bringing them to safety as quickly as possible so you can begin CPR or assist emergency personnel when they arrive.
What should I do if the person is unconscious in the water?
If the person is unconscious in the water, it’s crucial to act quickly and with care. First, confirm that someone has already called emergency services. If trained, enter the water with a buoyant aid and approach the victim cautiously. If the victim is face-down, gently roll them onto their back while supporting their head and neck to ensure their airway remains clear. This is particularly important if a spinal injury is suspected due to a fall or dive.
Once the victim is in a safe position, bring them to the side of the pool or shore. Once out of the water, place them on a firm, flat surface and check for breathing and responsiveness. If they are not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately if you are trained to do so. Continue CPR until emergency medical help arrives. If you are unsure how to perform CPR, trained dispatchers often provide step-by-step instructions over the phone to guide you.
What are some safe ways to pull someone to safety without entering the water?
If you are not trained in water rescue or if entering the water poses a risk, use reaching or throwing assists to pull someone to safety. For someone close to the edge, extend a long object such as a pole, towel, or life jacket to them. Instruct them to grab onto it while you pull them toward the side of the pool. Keep your body low to the ground to maintain balance and avoid being pulled in by the victim’s movements.
If the person is further out in the pool, use a rescue tube, life ring, or floatation device and throw it toward them. Aim for the chest or head area so they can grab it easily. Encourage them to hold on and then pull the device toward you using a rope or by swimming it in if possible. Even in calm conditions, entering the water untrained can lead to injury or drowning, so prioritize using tools and contacting emergency help as quickly as possible.
Why shouldn’t I approach a drowning person from the front?
Approaching a drowning person from the front is dangerous because individuals in distress often panic and may instinctively grab onto any available object—including the rescuer. This can result in both the victim and the rescuer being pulled underwater, which greatly increases the risk of injury or drowning. Drowning victims may not be aware of their surroundings and can overreact in a desperate attempt to stay afloat, making untrained rescue attempts risky.
To avoid this danger, trained rescuers are taught to approach from behind or from the side to safely make contact. If using a flotation device, position it near the victim to give them something to hold onto before approaching closely. For rescuers without formal training, it is best to refrain from entering the water altogether and instead focus on calling for emergency services and assisting the victim using rescue tools and verbal communication.
Should I perform CPR if the person isn’t breathing but I’m not certified?
Yes, if a drowning victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, you should begin CPR immediately, even if you are not certified. Emergency dispatchers can often provide real-time guidance over the phone to help you perform chest compressions effectively until professional help arrives. In life-threatening situations like drowning, immediate action significantly increases the chance of survival, so hesitation can decrease the victim’s likelihood of recovery.
If you are unfamiliar with rescue breathing, performing hands-only CPR (chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth) is still beneficial. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Continue this until medical professionals arrive or the person begins to show signs of life. It is also important to closely monitor the person’s condition and provide updated information to emergency responders upon arrival.
What should I do after rescuing a drowning person?
After safely rescuing a drowning person and bringing them out of the water, check for breathing and responsiveness. If they are not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately if trained to do so. If they are breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position to keep their airway open and monitor their breathing until help arrives. Avoid moving the person unnecessarily, especially if a spinal injury is suspected due to diving or falling into the water.
Stay with the person and help emergency responders by providing a clear account of the incident, including how long the person was submerged and whether CPR was performed. Even if the person recovers or seems fine after rescue, drowning can have delayed effects. Always seek medical attention, as complications such as secondary drowning or water in the lungs can occur hours later without immediate warning signs.