What should you do if you suspect someone has a spinal injury in the water?

When you suspect someone has a spinal injury in the water, the priority is to minimize any movement that could exacerbate their injury. Keeping the person still is crucial as movement can lead to further damage to the spine or nervous system. By stabilizing their position, you help prevent aggravating the condition, which could potentially lead to paralysis or other severe complications.

Calling for emergency help is also vital. Professional rescuers trained in handling spinal injuries will be equipped to safely extract the injured person from the water and provide the necessary medical assistance.

Encouraging the person to swim to safety can lead to unnecessary movement, increasing the risk of injury. Pulling someone to shore immediately could also cause movements that might worsen their condition. Ensuring the safety of others is important, but the immediate focus should be on the injured person, making stabilization and emergency assistance the best course of action.