HealthInfo Waitaha Canterbury
Drowning
Te toromi
Important
If someone has stopped breathing, phone 111 and ask for an ambulance.
Start CPR for adults & children or CPR for babies.
- Get the person out of the water. But do so safely without putting yourself at risk. Throw a rope, long pole or something to help them float if needed.
- Call 111 for help. Ask for an ambulance.
- Often getting the person out of the water is enough. They may start coughing then breathe as normal.
- Reassure them and keep them calm.
- Keep them warm.
If the person is unconscious but is definitely breathing, follow this advice.
If they aren't breathing, start CPR for adults & children or CPR for babies.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- MedlinePlus – Near drowning
Detailed information on rescuing a person who is drowning.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed December 2022.
SourcesReview key: HIFAD-141030
