After recognizing an unresponsive drowning person, what is the next critical link in the chain of survival?

The next critical link in the chain of survival after recognizing an unresponsive drowning person is early rescue breathing. In drowning situations, the victim often has water in their lungs, which can obstruct normal breathing. By performing rescue breathing promptly, you help to deliver oxygen to the body and alleviate hypoxia until emergency responders can take over. This action is crucial because it can be life-saving by preventing brain damage and other serious complications that arise from prolonged lack of oxygen.

While options such as early evacuation, calling emergency services, and administering chest compressions are also important steps in the response sequence, early rescue breathing directly addresses the immediate issue of oxygen deprivation that occurs in drowning victims. Prioritizing this action helps stabilize the victim's condition and enhances their chances of survival until further medical assistance arrives.