What characterizes "passive drowning"?

Passive drowning is characterized by a lack of response and struggle in the water, which aligns with the idea that the person is unresponsive but not struggling. In this scenario, the individual may have lost consciousness or is physically unable to react, appearing lifeless or lacking any movement. This condition can occur due to a variety of factors such as exhaustion, medical emergencies, or the effects of a submersion incident.

The distinction of a passive drowning event is crucial for lifeguards and rescuers, as it may require immediate attention and a different response strategy compared to an active drowning situation, where an individual is visibly struggling for breath and attempting to swim or keep their head above water. Understanding these characteristics enables responders to identify and address the needs of the victim promptly and appropriately.