What distinguishes distress from drowning?

The distinction between distress and drowning is primarily related to the individual's ability to breathe while their head is above water. When a person is in distress, they may be struggling but still have their head above the surface, allowing them to breathe and potentially call for help. This state indicates that they are experiencing difficulty but are not yet in the critical situation that defines drowning.

In contrast, drowning occurs when a person's airway is submerged, leading to the inability to breathe, ultimately causing respiratory failure. Understanding this distinction helps responders assess the severity of a situation and take appropriate action. Recognizing that someone in distress can still make efforts to save themselves or signal for assistance is crucial in emergency response.