Maintain the water level in a pool as high as possible to allow a person who reaches the edge to pull himself out.

 

Never place nonswimmers in high-risk situations: small sailboats, whitewater rafts, inflatable kayaks, and the like.

 

When boating or rafting, always wear a properly rated life vest with a snug fit and a head flotation collar. In a kayak or raft traversing whitewater, wear a proper helmet.

 

Teach all children to swim.

 

Do not mix alcohol and water sports.

 

Know your limits. Feats of endurance and demonstrations of bravado in dangerous rapids or surf are for idiots. Be prepared for a flash flood. In times of unusually heavy rainfall, stay away from natural streambeds, arroyos, and other drainage channels.

 

Use a map to determine your elevation and stay off low ground or the very bottom of a hill. Know where the high ground is and how to get there in a hurry.

 

Absolutely avoid flooded areas and unnecessary stream and river crossings. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream where the water is above your knees.

 

Abandon a stalled vehicle in a flood area.