Link: https://old.reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/1v9ttvv/lpt_saving_a_swimmer_in_distress_what_to_dodont_do/

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The original was posted on /r/lifeprotips by /u/FlyBoy572 on 2026-07-29 11:45:48+00:00.

I’ve seen quite a few news stories this year of people attempting to save swimmers in distress. (not all with good results)

I was a lifeguard and lifeguard trainer in my youth (had circa 75 ocean saves over a couple summers) and wanted to give some pointers on attempting to save a panicked swimmer.  Not meaning to give a lesson in being a lifeguard, but some notes on what to expect and what should be done.

1. First rule is that you don’t want the swimmer to grab a hold of you; this can result in two people getting drowned.  A panicked swimmer wants to grab onto something (anything) to stay atop the water; so don’t let this be you.  When you get within arms reach of them, they will lunge out towards you.  Upon getting close, a lifeguard does a quick reverse to back away from them and stay out of arms reach.

2. Don’t get a hold of them from the front.  Lifeguards dip under and grab their waist/legs and spin them back to and walk hands up body to get them into a back carry.

3. If they do get hold of you, you can get them to release with a pinch, kick (or best) pop up and then pull both of you down.  The panicked swimmer doesn’t want to be deeper below the surface and will instinctively let go.

4. If in a strong current or rip current, don’t panic and swim an 90 degree angle to the current.  Ocean rips do go that far; you’ll be OK.  If in a fast moving river, you can be pulled under but will pop up down stream (provided you are not in what is called a “stopper” in which case make yourself big with arms/legs out like a star fish).