Swimming: how to react when you are in difficulty in the water?

in collaboration with

Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)

Last year, 1,336 drownings were recorded in France, of which 361 were unfortunately fatal. And contrary to what one might think, nine out of ten people who drowned were adults. To avoid this, you need to know how to react in the water, in case of difficulty. A lifeguard from Cap Ferret tells us more via an Instagram video.

What do you do when you are in difficulty in the water?

According to the sea rescuer, if you find yourself in difficulty in the water, the most important thing is not to panic.“We must not exhaust ourselves and waste our energy fighting against the current.” explains the man.On the contrary, you have to let yourself be carried and wave your arms to call for help.” The first thing to do is therefore to save your strength, to hold out until the rescuers arrive. Do the plank if you get tired.” adds the rescuer.

What should I do if I see someone in difficulty from the beach?

If, on the other hand, you see a person in difficulty offshore, waving their arms and in danger of drowning, you must immediately call for help. This could be the nearby lifeguards or “by dialing 18 or 112 on your phone” recalls the rescuer.

Then, it is essential not to take your eyes off the victim “to guide the rescue services upon their arrival.” Finally, the man recalls, “We don’t play the hero, you need to be in great physical condition to get people out of the water and there’s no point in making a second victim“.

Prevention is essential.”Respect swimming restrictions and safety instructions and never leave a child unattended in the water!” recalls Doctor Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.

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