Drowning Prevention and CPR Training in Reno

Drowning can happen in seconds. A fun moment in the pool, lake, or even bathtub can quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency. The scariest part? Drowning is often silent—no splashing, no shouting, just a quiet slip beneath the surface.

At Northern Nevada CPR, we teach individuals and families how to recognize drowning and respond quickly with CPR and lifesaving techniques.

Recognize the Signs of Drowning

Drowning doesn’t always look like the dramatic scenes in movies. Look for these subtle signs:

• Head low in the water or tilted back

• Mouth at water level, trying to breathe

• Arms out to the side, pressing downward

• No ability to call for help or wave

• Glassy or closed eyes

• Floating face down or vertical in the water

If you suspect someone is drowning, act immediately.

Step-by-Step: How to Respond to a Drowning Emergency

1. Get Help

• Shout for help right away.

• Call 911 or direct someone to do so.

• If available, send someone to retrieve an AED.

2. Get the Person Out of the Water

• Do not jump in unless trained in water rescue.

• Use a rescue tool, life ring, pole, or flotation device to reach the person.

• If trained and safe, enter the water with a flotation device.

3. Check for Breathing and Responsiveness

• Tap and shout to check responsiveness.

• Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.

  
  

  • If breathing, place them on their side and monitor.

  • If not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR immediately.

  
  

4. Start CPR

For Adults and Children (age 1 and older):

• 30 chest compressions at 100–120 per minute in the center of the chest.

• Follow with 2 rescue breaths, tilting the head back and lifting the chin.

For Infants (under 1 year):

• Use 2 fingers for compressions just below the nipple line.

• Give gentle rescue breaths, enough to see the chest rise.

Continue CPR until emergency help arrives, the person starts breathing, or you’re too exhausted to continue.

5. Use an AED if Available

• Turn it on and follow voice prompts.

• Use pads as directed, including pediatric pads if provided.

Key Tips to Remember

• Never delay CPR to drain water from the lungs—start compressions immediately.

• Even if the person regains consciousness, they should still be evaluated at a hospital.

• Monitor for post-incident symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fatigue, or confusion.

Prevention Is Powerful

• Always supervise children around water—no distractions.

• Learn CPR and first aid; it’s one of the most important tools a parent or caregiver can have.

• Use barriers like pool fences and locks.

• Teach children to swim as early as safely possible.

Conclusion

Drowning emergencies are terrifying—but they don’t have to end in tragedy. Your ability to recognize the signs, act quickly, and perform CPR can save a life.

At Northern Nevada CPR in Reno, we provide hands-on drowning response, CPR, and first aid training for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members. Prepare, practice, and gain confidence—because being ready can make all the difference.

Contact Northern Nevada CPR today to schedule a lifesaving CPR course near you.