What is a common sign of drowning?

A common sign of drowning is when the swimmer appears to be struggling and making little progress. This behavior often indicates that the individual is experiencing a distressing situation in the water. When someone is drowning, they may not have the ability to keep their head above water, which can result in frantic movements and an inability to swim effectively. This can manifest as a swimmer who seems to be treading water ineffectively, flailing, or trying to hoist themselves out but not moving forward.

In contrast, a swimmer who is swimming smoothly may actually be well in control and not in distress. Similarly, a swimmer with a flotation device is generally in a safer position and not on the verge of drowning. Lastly, while waving for help can indicate distress, it may not always be a reliable sign of drowning, as some individuals may instinctively call for help without it being a clear indication of immediate danger. Therefore, observing a swimmer who is struggling and unable to make progress is a critical sign that intervention may be necessary.