Explain swimming rescue risks

Entering the water to perform a swimming rescue is the absolute last resort in the rescue hierarchy (Reach, Throw, Row, Go). It carries severe, life-threatening risks to both the rescuer and the victim.

Why Reaching and Throwing Come First

1. The Instinctive Drowning Response: A person who is actively drowning cannot control their movements or think rationally. Driven by basic survival panic, they will attempt to climb on top of anything that offers support to keep their mouth and nose above water.
2. Rescuer Danger: In this panicked state, even a child or small swimmer can produce astonishing strength, easily dragging down an adult or strong swimmer. If a rescuer enters the water without equipment, they risk becoming a second victim.
3. Loss of Leverage: On land or a dock, you can brace yourself with solid leverage. In the water, you have no solid footing to push against while trying to support another person’s weight.

Whenever reaching or throwing is possible, it keeps the rescuer safe on dry ground, provides immediate support, and eliminates in-water grappling.

Why and How a Rescuer Avoids Contact

If a swimming rescue becomes unavoidable (the “Go” step), it should only be attempted by a strong swimmer trained in lifesaving techniques, and always with Go (with support) principles:

Always Bring Flotation Between You and the Victim

Never swim out empty-handed. Take a buoyant aid with you:

• Life jacket (PFD)
• Ring buoy or rescue tube
• Kickboard, air mattress, or foam sleeping pad
• Canoe paddle or boat oar

Present the Flotation Device from a Safe Distance

• Approach the victim using the breaststroke or head-up crawl so you keep continuous visual contact.
• Stop when you are still 5 to 10 feet away — well outside their grasping reach.
• Push or extend the flotation device toward them, telling them firmly and calmly: “Take hold of this life jacket!”
• Allow them to grab the far side of the object, keeping the device between your body and theirs as a protective barrier.

Defensive Escape Maneuvers

If a panicked victim lunges and grabs you:

• Tuck and submerge: Take a breath, tuck your chin down against your chest to protect your airway, and dive straight down underwater. Because drowning victims are desperately trying to climb up to the air, they will instinctively let go of anything being pulled downward.
• Push away: Push the victim away at their hips or chest while submerged, swim a few yards underwater away from them, and surface out of their reach.
• Re-evaluate: Push the flotation device back toward them from a safe distance once they have calmed.