A Four-Year-Old Dies Tragically a Week After Swimming: These Are The Dry Drowning Symptoms Parents Need to Know

It may not be summer in Australia yet, but in a couple of months, we will see the weather warm up, which means families will be flocking to the beach and pool to make the most of the gorgeous days.

It’s currently what most American families have been doing during their summer holidays.

But one family has shared their tragic loss after their four-year-old son became a victim to dry drowning.

On May 29, Francisco Delgado III (or Frankie as he was known to family and friends), went on a family vacation where he and his family visited a pool. His parents watched him as he played in the pool that had knee deep water, oblivious to anything out of the ordinary.

But over the following days, Frankie developed flu-like symptoms and then started to feel a little better.

A week after swimming, Frankie woke up screaming in pain. His father was with him and made the call to emergency services.

Frankie was rushed to hospital, where medical staff did all they could to save Frankie’s life.

Unfortunately, he couldn’t be revived and they delivered the tragic news that Frankie had passed away due to dry drowning. His little lungs had been filled with water after that family swim and he had been a victim to dry drowning.

Frankie’s parents were devastated by their loss, but even more shocked by the cause. Had they known the flu-like symptoms were a sign of dry drowning, they would have sought medical help straight away.

The following symptoms of dry drowning indicate the brain isn’t getting enough oxygen. Here is what parents need to look out for:

• Difficulty breathing after swimming

• Drowsiness or sleepiness

• Forgetfulness or a change in behavior

If parents notice their child has any of these symptoms after swimming, they should seek medical attention immediately to ensure the victim’s life is saved.

Frankie’s family hope their story can warn other parents the dangers of dry drowning or secondary drowning, which it can also be known as.

Always watch your kids when they’re in the pool and keep an eye on the symptoms should your child’s behavior or health changes.

Our condolences go out to Frankie’s family at this tragic time.