Drowning

There are various different types of drowning, which must be learnt for Life Supports 2 and 3 particularly.

Note: Life Support 2 has now been abolished, but is still mentioned here for those who have already attained the qualification

Drowning is possible where there is sufficient water to cover both the nose and mouth.

Wet Drowning
“Suffocation by water entering the lungs.”

Dry Drowning
“Spasm of the larynx, normally following a near wet drowning, which causes air to be unable to pass in or out of the lungs”

Near Drowning
“Survival of one type of drowning, which normally involves unconsciousness or severe water inhalation”
Near Drowning can kill after the event. Always seek medical help following a near drowning.

Secondary Drowning
“Death due to changes in the lungs following a near drowning”

Citation: Handley, A.J. (2005). Life Support: Basic Skills to Save Lives. Broom: Royal Life Saving Society (UK).