Mom issues warning as son, 10, collapses after playing in ocean

Mom Issues Urgent Warning After 10-Year-Old Son Collapses Following Ocean Swim

A mother is sharing a terrifying near-tragedy to alert other parents about a hidden danger at the beach that many don’t know about—and it’s not drowning.

What Happened?

• 10-year-old Caleb was playing in shallow ocean water for hours on a hot day.

• He suddenly collapsed on the sand, unable to move or speak, with his body twitching.

• Rushed to the hospital, doctors diagnosed him with “shallow water blackout”—a little-known but deadly risk linked to swimming and breath-holding.

What Is Shallow Water Blackout?

• A sudden loss of consciousness underwater caused by low oxygen (not water in the lungs).

• Often happens when kids (or adults) hold their breath too long or hyperventilate before diving.

• Silent and deadly—victims often sink without struggle, making it hard to spot.

Why It’s So Dangerous

• No warning signs – Kids seem fine one second, then pass out underwater.

• Misunderstood – Many think it’s drowning, but it’s actually oxygen deprivation.

• Common in strong swimmers – Competitive kids who practice breath-holding are at higher risk.

Mom’s Warning to All Parents

• “I had no idea this existed. If we hadn’t been right there, he would’ve died.”

• Never let kids play breath-holding games (like “who can stay underwater longest”).

• Watch for:

  • Dizziness after surfacing

  • Confusion or fatigue

  • Gasping after holding breath

How to Prevent It

✔ Educate kids – Explain the dangers of breath-holding.
✔ No hyperventilating – Blowing out fast before diving lowers oxygen too much.
✔ 1:1 supervision – Even in shallow water.

Other Hidden Water Dangers Parents Miss

1. Dry Drowning – Breathing in water causes delayed lung spasms (hours later).

2. Rip Currents – Pull swimmers out to sea; always swim parallel to escape.

3. Hot Sand Burns – Can cause 2nd-degree burns on tender feet.

Stay safe this summer—share this to spread awareness! 🌊

Source: American Red Cross, CDC Water Safety

Has your family ever experienced a scary water incident? Let us know in the comments. 💙