Looks like it's about 3 feet deep, or waist high. You should be able to step into the water without any problems. And don't forget, the lantern has been burning this whole time. You had enough fuel for about 2 hours. You've had your lantern lit for 20 minutes so far. What is your next move?

Hmm, 46

untie the rope from the broom, coil it up good and then fasten it to your belt, then grab the lantern and go down there and check it out! am i forgetting anything?

Yes, there are things that have been forgotten.

is there enough time to check around for the missed stuff? we have one match left and no more kerosene. can we put out the lantern and see the other items by the hall light? maybe there are more matches or fuel

You have enough time, but don't waste it. At this point it is critical that you perform an act before you jump in the water. You are also missing two objects. They are visible in the drawings below, but remember some of the drawings (or the wording) is presented in a way to trick or deceive. One item is even shown twice.

i can't find them . . can we put out the lantern to save fuel and search? unless someone else knows