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4 A’s - AWARENESS, ASSESSMENT, ACTION, AFTERCARE - RED CROSS USA
REACH
A rope, hosepipe, branch, scarf, towel, pool pole, a long stick - you can then pull in the person who needs help. Always lie down to avoid being pulled in.
REACH, THROW, DON'T GO.
THROW
Otherwise throw something that will float - a ball, a plastic bottle, a lifebouy... this will keep the person afloat until help comes.
WADE
Test the depth with a long stick before wading in and then use the stick to reach out. Hold on to someone else or the bank.
If you fall in turn on to your back float, breathe, relax
ROW
Use a boat if there is one nearby and if you can use it safely. Do not try to pull the person on board in case they panic and capsize the boat.
By following these simple rules:
Together we can
prevent drowning
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