Dangers of Shallow Water Blackouts | KNR
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KNR Legal
Date posted
 
July 2, 2018
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While swimming is a fun and favorite pastime, it is essential to stay aware of its potential dangers to ensure that you and your loved ones remain safe. For example, shallow water blackouts often occur when people hold their breath for extended periods of time while swimming.

If you or a loved one has been hurt due to a shallow water blackout, you should contact our Ohio personal injury lawyers at Kisling, Nestico & Redick at 1-800-HURT-NOW right away. If someone else’s negligence led to your shallow water blackout, you might be eligible to file a claim for compensation. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a free, initial consultation.

What Is a Shallow Water Blackout?

Shallow water blackouts occur to swimmers who hold their breath or overextend themselves in shallow water conditions. As you hold your breath in water, oxygen is metabolized, and carbon dioxide levels increase. If you swim for an extended period, your body may become starved of oxygen.

Typically, when carbon dioxide levels build in your body, you are triggered to take a breath. However, when under shallow water, you may hyperventilate, and since you cannot take a breath, you may lose consciousness. This could lead to severe injuries or even death.

How to Avoid a Shallow Water Blackout

Even experienced swimmers are in danger of a shallow water blackout. It can happen while swimming underwater or when overextending yourself at the surface. Be sure to take the following steps to avoid a shallow water blackout:

  • Don’t allow yourself to hyperventilate.
  • Don’t ignore the urge to take a breath.
  • Do not swim alone.
  • Don’t play breath-holding games or allow your children to play these.
  • Take breaks between underwater laps.

These situations often happen when children play games, or experienced swimmers fail to take necessary breaks. If you see someone struggling underwater or they do not come up after an extended time, notify someone immediately.

Who May Be Liable for a Shallow Water Blackout

An Ohio personal injury lawyer can help you determine who may be responsible for injuries you incur after a shallow water blackout. If your child experienced a shallow water blackout during swim lessons or while at swim practice, they might not have been appropriately monitored during activities. If it happened while playing at a friend’s house, someone might have been responsible for watching the children. You may be able to file a personal injury claim after your child experiences a shallow water blackout.

It is important to note that adults may experience a shallow water blackout as well. If this occurs, you should contact an Ohio personal injury lawyer right away.

Contact an Ohio Personal Injury Lawyer at KNR for Help

Kisling, Nestico & Redick understands how devastating serious or fatal injuries can be. You may be worried about obtaining necessary medical help and continuing work while you recover. Contact our Ohio personal injury lawyers today at 1-800-HURT-NOW to find out how you can receive financial compensation after an injury during a free case evaluation.