OCR Text |
Show Knowing myths about accidental drownings could save a life j Drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. Yet drowning is preventable, says "The Better. Way" of "Good 'Housekeeping's" July issue. The - ' magazine presents some common myths about drowning. Knowing them can save a life. Here are some examples: . Myth: A drowning person will always shout for help, i Fact: The victim will rarely be able to call out for help because in the brief moments when his head . surfaces, the victim is struggling to breathe, which usually makes it impossible im-possible to speak. ' i : ; ; - '' y '-v..,' . , -J,r' '-i "S . ' ' M Myth: If you fall into the water : with your clothes on, you should ; 1 take then off so they don't weight jyoudown. "; r I , Fact Clothing can actually help i keep you afloat because it traps air. if Your clothes will also keep you in-I in-I sulated and reduce your chances of .j hypothermia. Remove your shoes if they're too heavy to allow you to ; swim comfortably. Myth: : If your boat capsizes, t leave it and swim for shore. i Fact: Since most boats float when i they capsize, it's tetter to stay with i the boat so that rescuers can find ; you more easily. ' |