← Help in Grant County

Someone is drowning or was pulled from the water

Use at a lake, pond, pool, tank, river or flooded arroyo when someone is struggling in the water, has gone under, or was just pulled out.

In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.

1Reach or throw, don't go

Call 911, or have someone call, right away.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7
Don't jump in unless you are trained. A drowning person can pull you under.
Reach with a long stick, pole, rope, towel or branch while you lie flat or hold on to something.
Throw anything that floats: a cooler, life jacket, ball or empty jug.
Never go into moving flood water. Wait for rescuers.

2When they are out of the water

If they aren't breathing normally, start CPR right away. For drowning, give 2 breaths first if you know how, then push hard and fast on the chest.
If they are breathing, roll them onto their side and keep them warm.
Anyone who was pulled under, coughed a lot or seems confused should see a doctor today. Trouble breathing can start hours later.
If someone is not breathing, use the guide "Someone collapsed, isn't breathing, or won't wake up".

3Prevent it

Children need an adult watching within arm's reach near any water, even a bucket or tub.
Wear a life jacket on a boat or kayak at Bill Evans Lake, Lake Roberts or Elephant Butte.

This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer

Know a better way? Is something out of date?

If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.

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Print these steps · Find more places to get help · Hours and numbers change; please call ahead. Something wrong? Tell us
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.