What should you do if you encounter a person in the water?

When you encounter a person in the water who appears to be in distress, the safest and most effective approach is to throw them a flotation device and avoid jumping in yourself. This response is rooted in both safety and effective rescue principles.

Jumping in immediately can put both you and the person in distress at greater risk, especially if they are panicking. A panicking person can inadvertently drag a rescuer underwater, leading to a dangerous situation for both parties. By using a flotation device, such as a life ring or even a cooler, you can offer crucial assistance from a distance and reduce the risk to yourself.

Additionally, throwing a flotation device allows you to maintain a safe position while providing essential support. This method ensures that you can call for emergency assistance if needed, while the distressed individual can grab onto the flotation device, increasing their chances of staying afloat until help arrives.

Paddling closer might seem helpful, but it can also introduce risks if you are not trained in rescuing techniques or if the person is struggling. Ignoring the situation is never an appropriate response, as it can lead to serious consequences for the individual in distress.