7 Things You May Not Know About Drowning

Summer isn't really summer until that first splash in a pool -- but it can also be a dangerous time for both kids and adults.

Drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages 1 through 4 and 47 percent of drownings happen at residential pools, reports PoolSafely.gov. In 2014, five children younger than 15 drowned in Virginia; four children in drowned in Maryland.

Here's what you may not know about drowning:

1. When someone is drowning, it's nothing like what's depicted in dramatic movies.

In most cases of drowning, there is no splashing, yelling, waving or calls for help. "Drowning is silent," says the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Most drowning people freeze as a physiological response; it's called the Instinctive Drowning Response. Most of the time, someone drowning holds their arms extended out to either side, keeps their mouths barely touching the surface of the water, and remains upright in the water. Someone who's drowning may not be able to swim toward help or reach out to grab something. Other signs of drowning include hyperventilating or gasping, unresponsive eyes and failed attempts to swim in a particular direction.

These responses only last between 20 to 60 seconds before the person submerges, so drowning is quick and silent. For more signs of what drowning really looks like, read through this chilling and informative Slate article. 

2. If you find someone drowning or if you yourself are drowning, remember: Flip, Float, Follow.

This "three F" guide is the "stop, drop and roll" of water safety. First, it's key to remain calm, especially when in the water. Next, attempt to flip over onto your back so you can more easily float in the water. Staying upright in the water will only last so long, but laying horizontally in the water will help you follow the currents and move along with the water.

If you are able to follow the currents, float over to a safe ledge or someone who can help. If you are too tired to swim or are having difficulty moving, signal for help. Because you are on your back, it should be easier to move your arms and use your voice.

Teach children these instructions as soon as they're old enough to understand, and review the steps frequently with them.

3. If you pull someone from the water, quickly find someone who can perform CPR if you can't.

You should always find someone who is is CPR-certified, such as a lifeguard. If you're curious about the basics yourself, review this CPR guide from Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services.

The best option is if you are prepared for these emergencies, especially if you have a private pool or are visiting one. Make sure whoever is supervising your children at the pool this summer is equipped with CPR training and a fully charged phone.

4. Don't assume anyone is safe because they can swim.

Adults -- even those who are experienced swimmers -- are susceptible to drowning, so don't assume someone is safe. A quarter of all drowning victims have had swimming lessons, according to the Virginia Department of Heath.

Also, don't rely solely on flotation devices to protect your child, as "floaties" or "swimmies" can slide off, lose air or change position. Supervision is the best prevention. Always keep an eye on your children and other children at the pool.

5. If you lose track of someone, always check the pool first.

In cases of drowning, many people lose time looking for the victim anywhere but in the pool. Even if your child was not supposed to be in the pool, they could have found a way in. Always check the pool first, because checking the rest of the surrounding area first takes up valuable time.

6. Always drain all liquid containers after use.

From the bathtub to the sink, always make sure large containers or basins of water in your home are fully drained. If a child is bathing in the tub or the sink, supervise them throughout the process.

Drowning is quiet and sudden, so one "quick" trip to another room to grab something can never be quick enough. Always have everything you'll need for your child's bath ahead of time.

7. If you have a pool in your backyard, put up a barrier.

To minimize the risk of your child -- or a visitor's child or a young neighbor -- from entering the pool without permission, get a fence with a latch to surround your pool.

Fences should be at least 5 feet tall. Self-closing or self-latching gates that open outward are recommended, according to the CPSC. Just as you keep dangerous poisons away from a child's reach, pools without supervision should be out of reach, too.