A seizure happens when there is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. This can cause changes in how a person moves, feels, behaves, or even loses awareness for a short time. For some, a seizure might look like staring blankly into space, while others may experience uncontrollable movements or lose consciousness.
Seizures can range from mild to severe, but they often have a big impact on a person’s daily life. According to the World Health Organization, about 50 million people around the world have epilepsy. What’s even more alarming is that people with epilepsy are 15–19 times more likely to drown compared to others.
This risk is especially important to think about if your job or hobby involves spending time in water. Lifeguards, swim coaches, athletes, or anyone working on the water face a higher danger if they have a seizure while submerged.
Why Is a Seizure in Water Dangerous?
A seizure in water is extremely dangerous because it can lead to drowning, even in shallow water. When someone has a seizure, they may lose control of their movements or consciousness, making it impossible for them to keep their head above water. This puts them at risk of inhaling water, which can damage their lungs or even stop their heart.
Common Signs of a Seizure
- Sudden jerking or twitching movements of the arms and legs
- Staring blankly into space
- Losing consciousness or collapsing
- Drooling or biting the tongue
- Confusion or not responding to others
- Sudden stiffness in the body
Certain jobs and activities require spending a lot of time in or near water, making this risk even greater for people who may have seizures. Lifeguards, swim coaches, professional swimmers, water sports athletes, divers, and marine workers are just some of the roles where being in or around water is part of the job. Hobbies like swimming, boating, or fishing can also pose risks if a seizure happens.
If you’re responsible for water safety, like a lifeguard, coach, or instructor, it’s very important to know how to act quickly if someone has a seizure. Recognizing the symptoms and taking the right steps in an emergency could save their life.
What to Do If Someone Is Having a Seizure in the Water
Dealing with a seizure in the water can be scary, but knowing what to do can save a life. Follow these first aid steps to act quickly and safely:
1. Get to the Person Safely
Swim quickly but calmly to the person having a seizure. Approach them from the side or behind to avoid their movements, which may be uncontrollable.
2. Keep Their Head Above Water
Use one hand to hold the back of their head, keeping their face above the water. With your other arm, support them under the arm or chest. This position helps keep them afloat and prevents water from entering their airway. Avoid pressing their neck to ensure they can breathe.
3. Tilt Their Head Upwards
Carefully tilt their head back slightly to keep their airway clear. Make sure water isn’t getting in their mouth or nose.
4. Call for Help
Yell for assistance right away. Alert a lifeguard or nearby swimmers and make sure someone contacts emergency services. If you’re alone, keep them safe in the water while calling for help if possible.
5. Don’t Restrain Their Movements
Don’t try to stop their arms or legs from jerking. Focus on keeping them stable and safe without forcing their body into any positions.
6. Move Them to a Safe Spot
After the seizure slows down, guide or carry them to solid ground or a shallow area. If they’re unconscious, turn them face up and hold their chin and head to tow them safely. Keep their face above water the entire time.
7. Check for Breathing
Once on solid ground, immediately check if they’re breathing. Look for chest movement or feel for air coming from their nose or mouth. If they’re not breathing, start CPR right away.
8. How to Perform CPR if Needed
- Tilt their head back slightly and ensure the airway is clear.
- Pinch their nose shut and give two breaths into their mouth, ensuring their chest rises.
- Press firmly in the center of their chest, about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute, for 30 compressions.
- Repeat the cycle of two breaths and 30 compressions until they start breathing or help arrives.
9. Put Them in the Recovery Position
If they’re breathing but still unconscious, turn them on their side. This position keeps their airway open and reduces the chance of choking if they vomit.
10. Stay With Them
Remain by their side until they are fully aware or emergency responders take over. Speak gently to reassure them as they wake up since they may feel confused or tired.
11. Get Medical Help
Even if the person seems okay, they should see a doctor. Water in the lungs can cause serious issues, like secondary drowning hours later.
Why It’s Important to Be Prepared for Seizures in Water
Knowing how to handle a seizure in water can save lives. When you’re prepared, you can act quickly to protect someone in danger, lower the risk of drowning, and help them recover safely. Taking the time to learn what to do can make water activities much safer for everyone.
If you have seizures yourself, there are steps you can take to stay safe around water. Here are some simple tips:
1. Wear a Life Jacket
A life jacket helps you stay afloat if a seizure happens while swimming.
2. Swim with a Buddy
Always swim with someone who knows about your condition and can help in an emergency.
3. Tell People About Your Condition
Make sure others, like friends or lifeguards, know you have seizures and how they can assist you if needed.
4. Pick Safe Swimming Areas
Choose places with lifeguards or calm waters where getting help is easier.
5. Take Rest Breaks
Don’t overdo it. Rest and stay hydrated to lower the chance of triggering a seizure.
Water becomes safer for you and those around you when you know what to do and take preventative measures. Simple actions and being mindful can make all the difference.