Parents are constantly on guard making sure that their children and infants are safe while they are in the water. If your child takes part in our classes, you already know how important it is to keep a watchful eye on them. Even though they are taught techniques that will save their lives in the water, parents are still urged to keep a watchful eye and know the signs of drowning.
But did you know that there are also cases of “dry drowning” which actually happens after leaving the water? This was the case of a 2 year old by the name of Alicyea Sanders after she left a hotel pool in Kansas City, MO.
USA Today reported on the incident in June of 2014. According to the report, the young girl “began to choke in her sleep” and her parents just happened to walk by to see that water was coming out of her nose and mouth.
According to WebMD, this unfortunate circumstance was caused by secondary drowning, which happens up to 24 hours after leaving the water. And while this type of drowning is very rare, it is still a very real occurrence. This typically happens when someone has a near drowning experience and appears to be ok. He/she will move around without any signs trauma, but difficulty breathing and brain injury will soon take place, just as if they were drowning in the water. This is caused by fluids built up in the lungs (referred to as pulmonary edema). If you notice any of these signs taking place, go to the emergency room right away.
As always, the best prevention is water safety. Remember that just 10 minutes a day can make a difference in your child’s life.