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Summary
People drown when they get too much water in their lungs. You can drown in as little as an inch or two of water. Babies can drown in a sink or bathtub. Preschoolers are most likely to drown in a swimming pool. People who have seizure disorders are also at risk in the water. Drowning can happen quickly and silently.
Drowning precautions should include:
- Fences around pools
- Supervising children near any body of water, including tubs
- Not swimming or boating when under the influence of alcohol or sedatives
- Wearing life jackets when boating
- Learning CPR
Learn More
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): First Aid (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research) Also in Spanish
- Drowning Facts (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Drowning Prevention (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Drowning Prevention for Curious Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Pool Dangers and Drowning Prevention -- When It's Not Swimming Time (American Academy of Pediatrics) Also in Spanish
- Water Safety (American Red Cross)
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Patient Handouts
- Near drowning (Medical Encyclopedia) Also in Spanish
The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.