Drowning

There are several ways to drown in NetHack; the most common of these is by means of an attacked possessed by some sea monsters, which is a two move instadeath to those unfortunate enough to suffer it.

Escaping drowning
If you see the message foo swings itself around you!, you usually have only one turn to escape death by drowning. On this turn, you can:


 * Pray, which can get you out of trouble.
 * Engrave Elbereth, if you are on land
 * Try to kill the monster in one turn, or put it to sleep (this is risky)
 * Teleport it away
 * Freeze the water
 * Wear an amulet of magical breathing (you will still be held by the creature)