What distinguishes active drowning victims from passive ones?

The distinction between active and passive drowning victims lies in their behaviors and responses when they are in distress in the water. Active drowning victims exhibit a noticeable struggle; they are typically making movements to try to stay afloat and reach for air. Their body may be vertical in the water, and their arms are often engaged in frantic motions to stay above the surface. This struggle is an effort to breathe and maintain their position above water.

In contrast, passive drowning victims are generally not making any significant movement. They may be submerged or floating limply without any signs of struggle. This lack of movement can lead to an underestimation of their situation, as onlookers might not realize they need immediate help. The key characteristic that sets active drowning victims apart is their visible struggle and desperate attempts to breathe, which are critical indicators for lifeguards and bystanders in identifying that someone is in trouble and requires assistance.