While you may think you have all the time in the world to grab a life preserver when your boat begins to go down, history states quite clearly that that's rarely the case. If you're unfortunate enough to hit the water with only the clothes on your back, utilize the trick below and turn those clothes into a floatation device.

It's a simple trick, but by just tying your pant legs into a knot and throwing them around your neck, you're pretty set to fill up your improvised life vest with air and float around until rescuers can get to you. Knowing this trick, ladies, you may want to forgo the short shorts next time you head out onto the sea. I guess that goes for the guys, too. FYI, this trick works best with polyester blend pants, but jeans will do in a pinch, which is exactly what this situation is.

This trick is an amazing one that everybody should be required to learn in school; imagine how many lives could be saved.