Hey folks, here's are very important articles that all of us should read.  You will learn what drowning REALLY looks like, so that you can help someone you might otherwise think is just fine:

http://gcaptain.com/maritime/blog/drowning/?10981

and

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/drowning.html

Excellent articles Glenn  8-)

Very informative! Thanks Glenn.

Good stuff Glenn.

This portion of info from the second link, makes an important point but does not indicate why.

"It's essential that you first try to help the swimmer using the reach, throw, and row method. If those steps don't work and you must go into the water because there is no other option, it's essential that you wear a life jacket, take a flotation device for the swimmer, and call for help or alert someone before you head into the water,"

When in the water with a drowning victim, in the Coast Guard we were taught to approach the victim from BEHIND. Unless the person is unconscious, they will climb on your head trying to get a breath forcing you underwater. This is a very dangerous situation and very often the untrained "good Samaritan" rescuer becomes a victim as well. If you find yourself going into the water to help anyone~

- Call for help or alert someone before you head into the water. Although, sometimes this just isnt possible.

- Wear a pfd if you can and take another one with you if readily available.

- Bring something for the victim to grab onto (to keep them off you) after they grab onto it, you can tow them to safety.

- If a victim does climb onto you or grabs you and starts to sink you as well, simply swim Down/underwater and the victim will usually release you, as the last thing they want to do is go further underwater.

During training we endured some decent brawls with our instructors as they simulated being a drowning victim.

A-Jay

A Jay.  You were in the Coast Guard, I must say THANKS for all you guys did and the Coast Guard is probably the greatest branch of all our services.  When doing my intership I treated many the Coast Guard pulled from the water.  All I can say is, none would have made it if not for the Coast Guard.  From the talk in the

er I could not believe some of the things you heroes did to save lives.

This thread is essential reading and bears repeating. Excellent post!

What do you think about making a safety thread posted at the top of each forum similar to the "Best of Bass Resource" thread?  All safety threads could be posted there for quick retrieval. 

I've been a lifeguard for 3 years now and I've never heard of the Instinctive Drowning Response thanks for this critical piece of info Glenn!

A Jay. You were in the Coast Guard, I must say THANKS for all you guys did and the Coast Guard is probably the greatest branch of all our services. When doing my intership I treated many the Coast Guard pulled from the water. All I can say is, none would have made it if not for the Coast Guard. From the talk in the

er I could not believe some of the things you heroes did to save lives.

Yes - did 28 years - you are very kind.

A-Jay

Great Post once again Mr. Glenn

Great articles. I learned a thing or two from those.

Thanks Glenn!

Thanks Glenn, Excellent article as usual.