[oh8eleven]

this was just for cases in which the recipient was in danger of death and a priest was not available.
I don't disagree - however - if the sacrament of Baptism is acceptable under "emergency" conditions, why would it not be acceptable under more normal circumstances?
I doubt if there's someone at the Pearly Gates checking baptismal validity.

[SoothingDave]

A baptism by a layperson in a non grave situation would be valid.

But the act would be illicit. It would be disobedient.

If thepower goes out a person may go into an intersection and direct traffic. But under normal circumstances, this would not be permitted.