Water safety

Life saving a drowning person

       Here's a Scout training method:  http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/BoyScouts/AdvancementandAwards/MeritBadges/mb-LIFE.aspx

            There are many more internet links on the subject, too.

            And often one can use self-rescue training methods, too.

            I remember one story about the Marine who fell off a ship into the Indian Ocean. He reported something like "nothing like going from the top of the food chain to the bottom of the food chain in one fell swoop".  Well, he used his training and bobbed around until rescued about a half-day later. Basically, he made a flotation device out of his trousers.

            So, depending on your situation, do the training you value if and when you can. If you are a Mom or Dad, at a minimum, teach your kids how to swim. Very few are born knowing how to swim.