SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/safety-water-feet-first

How should you enter unknown or shallow natural water?

Enter feet first.

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  1. Dive head first
  2. Jump backward
  3. Enter feet first ✔

Why: Unknown water can hide rocks, debris, and sudden shallow spots. A cautious feet-first entry reduces the risk of striking an unseen obstruction head first.

Huh, didn't know that: The Red Cross says to dive only where water is marked safe for diving and at least 9 feet deep.

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References

Answer: Enter feet first. Unknown water can hide rocks, debris, and sudden shallow spots. A cautious feet-first entry reduces the risk of striking an unseen obstruction head first.

  1. Lake and River Swimming Safety, American Red Cross www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/lake-river-safety.html
    Always enter unknown or shallow water feet first.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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