Dry Drowning has a 1% chance of occurring in all drowning accidents, but its prevalence among children is on the rise. The challenge lies in its detection, unlike the more recognizable "wet drowning."

Thus, parents must be more vigilant against this silent threat.

1. If a child inadvertently inhales water while swimming, it may not immediately affect their everyday activities. However, lung function can decline over time, leading to fatigue, drowsiness, sore throat, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

In severe cases, it can result in coma, suffocation, and even drowning. Timely treatment is crucial to prevent foaming at the mouth and potential fatalities.

2. Persistent coughing or continuous foam from the mouth and nose after swimming and difficulty breathing may indicate Dry Drowning. Urgent hospitalization is necessary in such cases.

3. Behavioral changes in a child after swimming, such as irritability, hallucinations, fear, or unsteady walking, may signal oxygen deprivation. Consultation with a doctor is essential for further evaluation.

In the face of Dry Drowning, what should we do?

1. Clear the airways by removing debris from the body. Promptly address any blockages to ensure smooth breathing. Lay the individual on their abdomen, head down, and press on the back to expel water from the respiratory tract and stomach. Avoid prolonging this step to prevent delays in cardiac resuscitation.

2. Swift action is crucial for artificial respiration, followed by chest compressions. Ensure the correct technique and frequency for age-appropriate compression depths.

3. Seek immediate medical attention. If the situation appears serious after the initial first aid measures, promptly transport the individual to the hospital to avoid missing the golden rescue time.

How to prevent Dry Drowning?

As parents, preventing drowning incidents is paramount to ensuring the health and happiness of our children. While swimming is a beneficial sport, safety measures are essential.

1. Choose swimming pools with lifeguards for children. Lifeguards provide an added layer of protection, especially in non-swimming pool areas like reservoirs and ponds where unknown depths can pose risks. Ensure water quality meets safety standards to prevent infections.

2. Monitor children in the water for any abnormalities, especially signs of choking. Avoid vigorous nose blowing, as it may lead to ear inflammation.

3. Pay close attention to your child's behaviour during swimming activities. Discourage breath-holding contests and playing in ways that might lead to choking, such as forcefully submerging the head in water.

4. After swimming, pay close attention to signs of Dry Drowning, including difficulty breathing, fatigue, drowsiness, and allergies. Seek immediate medical attention if any discomfort arises.