A video clip showing the rescue of a drowning boy at a cafe in Dak Lak has garnered attention and controversy on social media. The incident not only highlights the importance of first aid skills but also emphasizes the need to equip everyone with water safety knowledge.
A man carries the boy upside down in an attempt to save him (Photo: Screenshot from the clip).
Incident Details and Controversial Rescue Methods
The incident occurred on January 30 (the second day of Tet) at a cafe in Buon Ma Thuot City, Dak Lak Province. A 4-year-old boy fell into a pond within the cafe premises. His relatives quickly pulled him out of the water, but he was unconscious.
In a state of panic, a man carried the boy upside down and ran around in an effort to revive him. Fortunately, the boy regained consciousness. However, this method drew mixed reactions online, with many arguing that it was incorrect and potentially dangerous if not handled properly.
The boy regains consciousness after being rescued (Photo: Screenshot from the clip).
Expert Opinion on Proper First Aid Techniques
Mr. Mai Van Chuyen, founder of the free swimming project “Mobile Swimming Pool,” in Cu M’gar District, asserts that carrying the victim upside down, as seen in the clip, is incorrect and ineffective. He explains that the primary cause of death by drowning is respiratory arrest, not water inhalation.
According to Mr. Chuyen, when dealing with a drowning incident, one should remain calm and follow these steps:
Safely rescue the victim: Use a pole, float, or any buoyant object to pull the victim to shore. Avoid jumping into the water unless you are a skilled swimmer and rescuer.
Place the victim in a dry area and check their condition:
- If the victim is still breathing: Let them sit naturally and monitor closely.
- If unconscious but still breathing: Lay them on their side to prevent choking.
- If not breathing: Perform CPR immediately.
Carrying a drowning victim upside down is an incorrect method of rescue (Photo: Screenshot from the clip).
The Importance of Learning First Aid Skills
This incident serves as a wake-up call about the importance of equipping every family member with basic first aid skills. Drowning accidents can happen not just in rural areas but also in urban settings. Knowing how to handle such emergencies correctly can significantly reduce tragic fatalities.
Additionally, Mr. Mai Van Chuyen encourages parents to enroll their children in swimming classes and teach them water safety skills. His “Mobile Swimming Pool” project, initiated in 2016, has provided free swimming lessons to thousands of underprivileged children in Dak Lak, helping to reduce local drowning incidents.
Conclusion
Drowning accidents pose significant risks, especially for young children. Every family should proactively learn basic first aid skills to protect their loved ones in unexpected situations. Participating in water safety education activities, such as swimming and rescue training, is crucial.
Please share this article to spread awareness and help the community understand the correct methods of first aid in case of drowning accidents.
Source: Dan Tri
