Drowning looks different than you think...

There’s no splashing, waving, or calling for help of any kind.

It's not like what you see on TV.

Many people would not even notice another person drowning at just 30 yards away.

Read on for tips on how to keep yourself and those you love safe from this silent killer whether at the beach or in your backyard pool.

"Except in rare circumstances, drowning people are physiologically unable to call out for help.

Throughout the Instinctive Drowning Response drowning people cannot voluntarily control their arm movements. Physiologically, drowning people who are struggling on the surface of the water cannot stop drowning and perform voluntary movements such as waving for help, moving toward a rescuer, or reaching out for a piece of rescue equipment.

From beginning to end of the Instinctive Drowning Response people’s bodies remain upright in the water, with no evidence of a supporting kick. Unless rescued by a trained lifeguard, these drowning people can only struggle on the surface of the water from 20 to 60 seconds before submersion occurs."

Here are some signs of a 'real' drowning:

* Head low in the water, mouth at water level
* Head tilted back with open mouth
* Hair over forehead or eyes
* Eyes glassy, empty and unable to focus
* Eyes closed
* Hyperventilating or gasping
* Not using legs
* Body is vertical and upright
* Trying to swim in a certain direction but not making progress
* Trying to roll over on the back


Remember - Kids make noise in the water. If they're not - get to them ASAP!

And don't forget the 'buddy system' - use it whenever possible - no matter how old you are!