Drowning

[Ristamar]

Can someone tell me how to email the sage?

One more thought: if the average character gets 20 rounds to breathe underwater, wouldn't it be almost unheard of for anyone to drown, even in rough water? I mean, statistically, even if you consider that you take a -1 penalty on your check for each round you've been underwater, odds are good that eventually you'll make your check and get a fresh lung full of air.

thesage@wizards.com

And no, not if they're weighed down or unable to somehow signal for help (or are extremely close to shore).

Most people don't drown if there's help nearby. Otherwise, they might put up a struggle for awhile, but they eventually become fatigued and succumb to the waters.

Rough water has its own hazards. In addition to the obvious penalties to the swim check, there's also the possibility of getting slammed against various objects (though this mostly applies to rapids).

 

[Grazzt]

..odds are good that eventually you'll make your check and get a fresh lung full of air.

Making the check doesnt give you a fresh lung of air. It allows you to remain alive and keeps you from drowning by extending the amount of time you are holding your breath.

But- once you fail a Con check, you begin to drown (1st round: unconsciousness, 2nd round fall to -1 hp, and 3rd round dead).