Distressed swimmer
"Distressed swimmer" or "Distressed non-swimmer" (DNS) is a term used by the Canadian Lifesaving Society to describe a particular victim type.
Lifesaving Society Definition
Distressed swimmers can be novice swimmers with limited swimming ability, tired or weak swimmers, and people who are ill or injured. This group also includes swimmers who become disoriented after playing in or falling into the water. Unless they are rescued, distressed swimmers can become drowning victims. [1]
Usage
The acronym "DNS" is a commonly used term within the Canadian Lifesaving Society to expedite the process of describing a victim. This is particularly useful in emergency situations where time is of the essence, and where the phrase "distressed swimmer" would be difficult to say. [2]
Notes and references
- ^ Unknown: "Canadian Lifesaving Manual", section 4-3. Lifesaving Society, 2004
- ^ Example of the use of the term "DNS".