22
HYPOTHERMIA
Prolonged immersion in cold water (after one hour or more) leads
to a loss of body heat. Over time (depending on water temperature,
body type and thermal protection) the core temperature of the body
decreases. This produces a condition called hypothermia which is
very serious and can lead to unconsciousness and circulatory failure.
Swimming and treading water accelerates heat loss. Wearing a
flotation device is essential to help you conserve body energy and
increase your survival time. It enables you to float quietly and curl up
arms and legs in a Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP), see Figure
below, with the head out of water, also reducing heat loss from the
head, under the arms, and the groin area. If there is more than one
person in the water, gathering together in a huddle is recommended
while waiting to be rescued. See “HELP and Huddle”,
See Figure
below.
Preparation, good safety practices and strong spirit are the keys to
survival. Stay Calm and Don’t Give Up.
For your flotation device to function properly, follow these
suggestions to verify that it fits, floats, and remains in good condition.
1.
Check the inflation mechanism status indicators before each use.
2.
Get in the habit of rearming the inflation mechanism right after
each inflation.
3.
Try your wearable flotation device on and adjust it until it fits
comfortably in and out of the water.
4.
Mark your flotation device with your name if you are the only
wearer.
FIGURE 22
