Slate: Drowning doesn't look like drowning

[Skittl1321]

During my recent confined water dives for OW we were asked to do a 10 minute safety float. Specifically, they told us to try to lay on the surface, with back arched, only working to keep head above water, but otherwise effortless. We were only told to tread if we had to.

I was the only one to float for 10 minutes (relaxed to the point the instructor asked if I wanted a cocktail, I had essentially been taking a non sleeping nap.). My husband who is a superb swimmer was unable to float at all, even with coaching on body position. Everyone else in the class floated for a few minutes, the needed to tread before floating again.

Despite it being the one certification skill I did well, I really think treading us a more important skill except in the mist dire situations when there is no energy left to tread. I can tread for over an hour though.

 

[InTheDrink]

This is an article that talks about a near miss so this is the best place I can think to put it.

As a father of an 8 and 10 year old, a rescue diver and a person who generally cares a lot about the safety of those around me, I think this is a must read.

Rescuing drowning children: How to know when someone is in trouble in the water. - Slate Magazine

Many thanks for this, I really had no idea and very good to know what to look out for. I have 7 and 9 yr old kids that spend a lot of time in the water.