If a person who cannot swim falls into deep water, it is still possible
in many instances for him to save his own life if he can keep his wits
about him. Remember that one always rises to the surface at once after
falling into deep water, and that the person must not raise his arms or
hands above the water unless there is something to take hold of, for the
weight thus raised will sink the head below the point of safety. Motions
of the hands under water, however, will do no harm, for in quiet water,
with the head thrown back a little, the face will float above the
surface unless heavy boots and clothing drag the person down. The slow
motion of the legs as if walking upstairs, keeping as nearly
perpendicular as possible, will help to keep one afloat until aid comes.