Which of the following is NOT a sign of drowning?

The presence of loud splashing can often indicate that a swimmer is actively trying to stay above water or signal for help, but not all noise during swimming translates to distress. In contrast, drowning is often characterized by a lack of movement or effort, which makes it hard to detect, especially in crowded aquatic environments.

Lack of movement is a clear sign of distress, as a drowning individual may be too overwhelmed to swim or signal for assistance. When a person’s head goes under and does not come up, this is a significant indicator of drowning, as it suggests they are unable to keep their face above water. Similarly, a silent struggle is typically indicative of drowning as drowning is often a very quiet process—people may be unable to yell or splash when they are struggling for breath.

Therefore, while a swimmer splashing loudly may be engaging in a vigorous activity, it does not serve as a reliable sign of drowning. Understanding this distinction is crucial in ensuring effective rescue and assistance in aquatic environments.