Don't fish without a buddy. This is the best advice I can give you. When you fish with a buddy, and are crossing big water, interlock arms for increased safety.
Wade a stream diagonally, moving downstream. Take the angle, and take it slowly. You will be surprised when you get in fast-moving water that is more than two feet deep because it can lift your feet off the ground and sweep you over in a flash. Look for slower water and solid footing.
Point your forward foot toward the current. Keep your back foot planted firmly.
Do not cross on big submerged boulders. They are likely slippery and any rapid or accelerated movement leads to problems.
If you fall, especially in a big river, pull your knees up, face your feet downstream, and lean back, using your hands as best you can to navigate and get to the bank. You don't want your head underwater banging into rocks. If you stay calm, you can reach water where you can stand up or swim to the bank.
Do not panic. Measure the situation and have forethought about what you should do. Then do it.
If you do not carry a wading staff, keep your rod in your upstream hand and if you slip or start to fall, jab the rod handle in the water to immediately stabilize yourself. The current tends to push you upright.
If you fall in and get soaked, dry out your clothes to avoid hypothermia. And pruney feet will get blisters quicker than dry feet.
Don't wade on spawning fish redds.
Keep your balance. Don't cross your legs. Don't lean over too much.
The bottom line: The less you wade, the less you spook the fish, and the less you put yourself in harm's way.

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