There are several important rules that apply to all water sports. The sportsman/woman should have the right equipment and the right instruction; engage in the sport with a buddy; and avoid the use of alcohol or medication that may cause impaired judgment. Nonswimmers account for two thirds of all drowning victims annually; swimming is an important life skill to be learned from an early age. Children should never swim unsupervised. If a swimmer gets into trouble, efforts to reach the victim should be made by extending an oar, tree branch or pole. If the victim cannot be reached, qualified help must be called, as even a competent swimmer can be pulled under by a drowning person.

Underwater diving or skin diving is not a sport that can be undertaken casually. Planning carefully with a diving table will indicate allowable times at specific depths, and time...