Avoiding Hypothermia

Posted by Alan Sorum Jul 14, 2007

Cold water efficiently transports heat away from a body in the water, some 25 times faster than air. Many boaters only think of hypothermia as a winter season issue and this can be a dangerous mindset. Many cold-water injuries occur in the spring and fall. Going further a field to the north will make it a summer time worry as well. While out on the water, place a bare hand in water for half a minute. If it comes back numb or tingling after withdrawal, you need to be concerned with cold-water injuries. Boating in water less than 10°C (50°F) should always be treated as operating in a cold-water environment. Safe boating depends on good planning and preparation.

Dress Appropriately – Wear a dry or wetsuit in cold-water conditions. Using layers will allow easy adjustment to prevailing conditions. Avoid cotton clothing at all costs, it easily adsorbs and holds water. Cold Water Boating Safety depends on good preparation and education.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device – In most cases, boaters never have a chance to die from hypothermia. By not wearing a lifejacket, drowning occurs long before a cold injury can be a problem.

Avoid Alcohol – Use of alcohol effects the body's ability to retain heat, impacts its ability to generate heat and reduces good judgment making abilities. A change in just one of these factors can hurt safety.

Learn to Recognize and Treat Hypothermia – A reduction of the core body temperature to less than 35°C (95°F) is considered hypothermia. Knowing the causes and first signs of this problem is key to treating hypothermia.

Outdoor Survival depends on preparedness. Enjoyment of waterborne sports carries a responsibility and concern for safety. Safety doesn't take away from the boating experience, it ensures that you can enjoy it another day. Remember to boat with a friend.