How many initial rescue breaths should be given when first contacting an unresponsive drowning person?

When responding to an unresponsive drowning person, the recommended practice is to provide 2 initial rescue breaths. This approach is pivotal for a few reasons.

First, giving 2 rescue breaths helps establish an open airway and delivers oxygen to the lungs, which is critical for restoring breathing and circulation. Drowning often leads to the inhalation of water, which can displace air in the lungs and prevent effective gas exchange. By administering these breaths as soon as possible, you're initiating the life-saving process and addressing potential hypoxia.

Moreover, providing immediate rescue breaths before initiating chest compressions is part of the chain of survival and crucial for someone who is not breathing, especially if the event is drowning-related, as it increases the chances of oxygenation to vital organs and ultimately improves the likelihood of survival.

The other choices suggest a higher number of initial breaths which could lead to complications, such as hyperventilation or excessive pressure in the lungs, rather than focusing on providing just what’s needed to restore effective respiration.