Sunga, Ricol A.

March 16, 2024

FS-301

Drowning

Drowning is a term we often hear, especially during summer months when people
spend time near water. But what exactly is drowning? Drowning occurs when
someone experiences difficulty breathing underwater, leading to suffocation. It's not
just about water going into the lungs, but also about the lack of oxygen that the body
needs to function properly.

Drowning usually happens when a person is in water and can't breathe. This can
occur for various reasons, such as falling into a pool and not knowing how to swim,
getting caught in a strong current while swimming in the ocean, or even being
knocked unconscious and falling into a body of water. When someone is drowning,
they might panic and struggle to keep their head above water. But eventually, their
body becomes exhausted, and they start to sink. As they inhale water, their lungs fill
up, making it impossible to breathe. Without oxygen, the body's organs can't work
properly, leading to suffocation and, in severe cases, death.

In forensic science, understanding drowning is crucial for investigating deaths that

occur in or around water. Forensic experts examine the circumstances surrounding a
drowning incident to determine if it was accidental, intentional, or the result of foul
play. They look for evidence such as water in the lungs, signs of struggle on the
victim's body, and any potential injuries that may have occurred before or during the
drowning. This information helps law enforcement agencies and medical examiners
uncover the truth behind the incident and bring closure to the victim's family and
loved ones.

Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death worldwide, especially among

children and young adults. By raising awareness about water safety and teaching
people how to swim, we can prevent many drowning incidents from occurring.
Additionally, knowing how to recognize the signs of drowning and how to respond
quickly can save lives in emergency situations. Moreover, understanding the risks
associated with water activities, such as swimming in rough seas or diving into
shallow waters, can help individuals make informed decisions to protect themselves
and others.

In conclusion, drowning is a serious and potentially life-threatening situation that

occurs when someone is unable to breathe underwater. It's essential to understand
how drowning happens, its importance in forensic science, and the measures we can
take to prevent it. By prioritizing water safety and spreading awareness, we can
reduce the number of drowning incidents and ensure that everyone can enjoy
water-related activities safely.
References:

Drowning Facts | Drowning Prevention | CDC. (n.d.).

https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/facts/index.html#:~:text=What%20is%20drowni

ng%3F,person%20survives%20a%20drowning%20incident.

World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, July 25). Drowning.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/drowning

Armstrong, E., & Erskine, K. (2018, March 7). Investigation of Drowning Deaths: A

Practical Review. National Library of Medicine.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6474464/#:~:text=Forensic%2

0pathologists%20who%20are%20directly,most%20commonly%20water%2C

%20with%20subsequent