What behavior is a significant warning sign of a potential drowning?

The behavior that signifies a potential drowning is represented by an individual who is unusually quiet or showing signs of struggle. When someone is in distress in the water, they may not be able to call out for help or splash around, which can be misleading. Instead of making noise, a person who is in actual danger may exhibit silent signs of distress, which can include flailing arms, a tilted head, or a failure to keep their mouth above water.

This is paramount because drowning often happens silently. Many individuals in distress may not be able to vocalize their situation due to a lack of breath or focus on survival. Recognizing these subtle signals can be life-saving, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and awareness in aquatic environments.

In contrast, individuals who are making noise, swimming regularly, or playing in the water may still be engaging safely and not in immediate danger. Therefore, the key factor distinguishing a life-threatening situation is the unusual quietness or struggle of a person in the water, which warrants immediate attention.