What is the first step to take when handling a drowning victim?

The first step to take when handling a drowning victim is to call for emergency services and check for breathing. This approach is crucial because it ensures that professional help is on the way while you assess the victim's condition. Checking for breathing allows you to determine if the victim is in need of immediate resuscitation or other interventions.

In situations involving drowning, time is of the essence, and being able to establish whether the victim is breathing can guide your next actions. If the victim is not breathing, you can then proceed to provide appropriate assistance such as CPR.

Calling for emergency services first ensures that even if your efforts are not enough, help is on the way to take over care. This is essential because drowning scenarios can lead to serious complications, and having trained professionals available is critical for the best chance of survival.

While removing the victim from the water is important, it should ideally occur after the initial assessment and call for help, as the priority is to ensure that assistance is already in motion while you check the victim's responsiveness and breathing.