About 40% of people in need of first aid never receive it, despite the fact that first aid at the scene of a drowning is the most important treatment that can influence the outcome.

Most drownings occur in and around the home so performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on children while waiting for help to arrive can make a significant difference to their outcomes.

It is simple and effective yet not everyone knows CPR. See the quick demonstration video on the right of how easy it is.

Parents and carers can play a pivotal role in reducing toddler drowning deaths by enrolling in a CPR training course and regularly updating their skills. CPR short courses are run by St John Ambulance Victoria and Life Saving Victoria.

St John First Aid Protocols are for the Australian market only. All care has been taken in preparing the information but St John takes no responsibility for its use by other parties or individuals. St John encourages first aid training as these Fact Sheets are NOT a substitute for first aid training. The Fact Sheets are for use over a 12 month period only. For more information on St John first aid training and kits visit the St John Ambulance Victoria website or call 1300 360 455.