Swimming Pool Accidents

Every year, emergency services receive numerous calls regarding pool accidents. Below, we explain how to treat the most common accidents that occur in swimming pools during the summer.

Sunburns. The sun, one of the biggest threats to skin in terms of short-term effects, can cause skin irritation and severe burns that in some cases lead to sunstroke. Last week, we discussed how to treat sunstroke, but what about sunburns? It is vital to intensely hydrate the skin by applying emollients and soothing creams. Drink plenty of water, take cool baths or apply cold compresses to the affected area, and consume antioxidants that aid skin regeneration.

Slips, cuts, and falls. Injuries from slip-and-fall accidents account for millions of emergency room visits every year. In aquatic environments, they are relatively easy to prevent: by avoiding running or playing rough near wet or damp pool decks, we can minimize the danger. To treat a cut, wash the wound with water and mild soap, apply direct pressure to stop bleeding, and protect it with a clean bandage.

Spinal injuries and trauma. Sudden impacts against the pool floor or other swimmers can lead to severe trauma and spinal injuries. Always check pool depth before diving to prevent lacerations or fractures. Basic treatment for mild trauma follows the well-known RICE method:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

This technique works for basic and common minor injuries, but treatment depends on severity. Given the wide variety of injuries, mobility, sensation, and distal pulse must be evaluated.

Drowning incidents. Drowning does not depend solely on an individual’s motor skills or swimming ability. For instance, swimming after heavy meals or alcohol consumption should be avoided, as well as swimming after prolonged sun exposure. Sudden temperature contrasts or digestive shock can cause severe cramping or limb numbness, resulting in loss of physical control. Initial action steps during drowning rescues include:

1. If the victim can follow commands and listen, they can indicate the safest approach while accounting for potential injuries.
2. If the victim is panicked and out of control, rendering communication impossible, an immobilization maneuver is required. Once immobilized, tow the victim to safety while attempting to calm them. The simplest immobilization technique is approaching from behind and wrapping one arm around their waist. The victim will desperately grab your arm; the rescuer then uses their free hand to peel back the victim’s fingers, breaking the grip. Move their arm behind their back so the victim is positioned back-to-chest with one arm immobilized, preventing them from injuring or submerging the rescuer. Tow them to safety while maintaining control.
3. If the victim is unconscious, position them face-up and begin the rescue tow immediately.
4. Approaching a submerged victim: Fixate on the last surface point where the victim was seen, approach that location, and dive down to retrieve them.

Once a quick assessment (anamnesis) is conducted, proceed with the rescue technique best suited to the victim’s condition.