Drowning
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Assessment of drowning
Important points to observe:
- Shortness of breath and bluish discoloration on the face or fingers
- Severe coughing
- Feelings of panic and anxiety
- Shivering, possibly due to hypothermia
What measures should you take?
Call emergency number 112 immediately!
- Watch your own safety and get the child out of the water
- Talk to the child and check their consciousness
- If the child is awake and responsive: Provide reassurance, calm the child, and prevent hypothermia (keep warm with blankets, hats, body contact, and offer warm, sweetened drinks) and ensure continuous supervision
- If the child does not respond after the rescue: Check the breathing and clear the airways
- If the breathing is normal, place the child in the recovery position
- If breathing is abnormal or absent, begin resuscitation
If the mentioned measures do not lead to improvement, promptly consult a doctor or call 112. Your personal safety is of utmost importance. Stay calm and composed in every emergency situation.
Source: DGUV – Handbuch zur Ersten Hilfe in Bildungs- und Betreuungseinrichtungen für Kinder, Seite 48.
Last update: 9. October 2025
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