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What is the first step you should take if you fall into cold water?

  1. Swim to warm up

  2. Try to get out immediately

  3. Keep clothes on to trap heat

  4. Attempt to dry off

The correct answer is: Keep clothes on to trap heat

Falling into cold water can be a shock to the system and can lead to hypothermia. Therefore, the first step you should take is to conserve as much body heat as possible. Swimming to warm up or attempting to dry off will only cause your body to lose more heat. Trying to get out immediately may also put you at further risk as it can lead to disorientation and injuries. It is best to keep your clothes on to trap the heat and wait for assistance or until you can safely exit the water.