What is a common sign that someone is beginning to drown?

Gasping for air is a critical indicator that someone is beginning to drown. This behavior occurs when a person is struggling to breathe due to water entering their airway. As the individual struggles, their body instinctively tries to get oxygen, which may lead to gasping or frantic inhalation efforts. Such behavior signals an urgent medical situation requiring immediate intervention. Recognizing this sign can be essential for a lifeguard or any individual nearby to act quickly and effectively to prevent drowning.

In contrast, exaggerated movements can sometimes be seen during an active struggle, but they aren't as directly indicative of drowning as gasping. A slow descent can refer to a more passive form of drowning, but it often occurs when an individual is already submerged or unconscious. Lastly, a calm demeanor is misleading; a person who appears calm while in water may actually be experiencing distress silently, but it does not accurately represent the struggle typically associated with the onset of drowning.