Years ago while I was undergoing cold weather training in preparation for my deployment to Antarctica, hypothermia and the effects of it were typically discussed in every session. Over the years and through the introduction of different materials used in outer wear, hypothermia is still of concern, but the body has more protection with these materials than when I was in the Antarctic 47 years ago.
Hypothermia is what occurs when your body dissipates more heat than it absorbs. In humans, it is defined as a core body temperature below 95.0 °F. Symptoms depend on the temperature. In mild hypothermia there is shivering and confusion. In moderate hypothermia, shivering stops and confusion increases. In severe hypothermia, there may be paradoxical undressing, in which a person removes his or her clothing (Robert Scott's body was found in this state when he and his crew were located after returning from making the south pole), as well as an increased risk of the heart stopping.
A quick Google search of "cold water boating" turned up one consistent comment in every article I read: the importance of wearing a life jacket. Wearing a PFD becomes even more critical when the danger for hypothermia is added to other concerns. A sudden introduction into cold water can have significant physiological consequences, including cardiac arrest, quick loss of body heat (the body loses heat 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air) and involuntary inhalation of water (gasping) that results in drowning. Wearing a life jacket can keep the boaters head above water, keep the person warm, and provide a chance for rescue. In fact, there are specific PFDs that can be acquired for cold water boating. Wearing the right clothing contributes to more enjoyable and safer cold weather boating. Consider dressing in layers of clothing, and including a wet suit or dry suit, to help ward off hypothermia.
The following statements are a direct lift from one of the more popular weather boating magazines.
~ Assess the risks – think what can go wrong and be fully equipped and prepared.
~ Leave a float plan with a responsible individual who knows your intentions, location, and who to call if you fail to return as scheduled.
~ Carry a VHF radio and an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), signal flares and other means to draw attention to your location.
~ Be aware of and prepared for the shock of sudden immersion and incapacitating effects of cold water – dress to get wet and carry a change of clothing in a waterproof container.
~ Be aware of activity around your vessel and potential for fast-changing weather.
~ Boat safe and sober – save the alcohol for when you’ve safely returned.
~ Be sure your vessel is in good operating condition and has the necessary safety equipment on board before you leave the dock.
~ Refresh your seamanship skills - take a boating safety course offered by your local Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla.
Stay safe this cold season - and we"ll see you at one of the CCYC socials.
Capt. Dave Steward
Safety Captain
PC
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