Active drowning victims are conscious but are struggling and unable to call for help. They also may be thrashing their arms. It is very important for you to recognize these signs early as people will become submerged in 20 to 60 seconds.[1]
An active drowning victim will bob in and out of the water with his or her mouth being just above the surface of the water. The person is not making forward progress either.[2]
Someone who looks as though they're having trouble, but isn't yelling for help, may not have enough oxygen to call out.