Dry drowning: What you need to know this summer
What is dry drowning?
Despite the name, dry drowning doesn’t happen in the water. Instead, it occurs minutes to hours after someone inhales water—even just a small amount—during swimming or splashing. This water can irritate the airways, vocal cords, or lungs, causing swelling or breathing difficulty after the person is out of the water.
Unlike traditional drowning, dry drowning happens after someone has left the pool or beach, which is why awareness is so important.
Who is at risk?
Dry drowning is most common in young children, whose smaller airways make them more vulnerable to complications. However, it can also occur in adults, especially those who have experienced:
- A near-drowning event
- Choking on water
- Rough play, like dunking
- Extended time in the water
Warning signs
Symptoms of dry drowning can appear within minutes or up to 24 hours after water exposure. Keep a close eye on anyone who’s recently been swimming, especially if they went underwater unexpectedly.
🚨 Seek medical attention right away if you notice:
- Persistent coughing or trouble breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Unusual fatigue or excessive drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Confusion or sudden changes in behavior
Prompt treatment can make all the difference—most individuals fully recover with early medical care.
Keep your family safe this summer
Water play should be fun—and with a few precautions, it can also be safe. Here’s how to help prevent dry drowning and other water-related risks:
Always supervise children closely around water
Ensure kids take regular breaks from swimming to rest and hydrate
Encourage children to avoid swallowing water
If a child has a scare or choking incident in the water, monitor them closely for several hours afterward
A safe summer starts with awareness and action. Know the signs. Trust your instincts. And never hesitate to seek care if something feels wrong—even after the fun has ended.
