Final answer:
When witnessing someone struggling in water, act immediately as they may not be able to call out for help. Prioritize their removal from water before performing CPR, and always heed safety signs like "no diving" in shallow areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Responding to a Drowning Incident
If you witness a patron struggling while swimming and then going underwater, it is critical to act immediately. Despite the myth that a drowning person will shout and wave for help, the reality is they often cannot call out due to a muscular spasm that seals the airway. This makes them unable to shout for help, and their struggles might not be so visible above water. It is essential to recognize the quiet and often unnoticeable signs of a person in distress and to respond quickly.
In the process of assisting, remember to prioritize safety. If there are signs indicating "no diving", do not dive into the water as it could be shallow and lead to severe injuries. After safely reaching the person, removing them from the water is the first priority. Once they are on stable ground, CPR should be administered if necessary. The goal should always be to secure the person's safety before proceeding with any life-saving measures.
Understanding the physics of water and how it reacts to different forces, such as a belly flop compared to a streamlined dive, is important for both safety and effective swimming techniques. Advising people to avoid dangerous entries into water, like belly flops, can prevent injuries and ensure a safer swimming environment.