In this clip, F&S photographer Tim Romano takes a ride down "The Numbers" rapids on Colorado's Arkansas River with his improvised "helmet cam."

ASSUME THE POSITION: The safest way to ride a rapid is on your back, head pointed upstream, feet down, legs flexed, and toes just above the water's surface. Lift your head to watch ahead. Use your feet to bounce off rocks and logs.

TIME YOUR BREATHING: Choking on water will unleash a panic reaction in even the most experienced swimmer. The surest way to avoid a sudden, massive gulp of water is to inhale in the troughs (low points) and exhale or hold your breath at the crests (tops) of the waves.

SCOUT FOR AN OUT: As you look downstream to avoid obstacles, such as logjams, also scan the shoreline for calmer water, such as an eddy on the downstream side of a rock or river bend.

GO WITH THE FLOW: As the current carries you toward quieter water, paddle with your arms and kick with your legs to steer yourself toward shore. When you get close, roll onto your stomach and swim upstream at a 45-degree angle, which will ferry you to the bank.