What happens when you are in cold water?
When the water is below 59 degrees there is a concept called the 1-10-1 strategy for surviving in cold water.
One Minute 1 - 10 - 1
- Once you fall into cold water, you will hyperventilate for one minute.
- Take the time to get control of your breath and keep your head clear of the water.
- Do not panic. It helps to know that your breathing will settle down.
- Take stock of your surroundings and plan your next steps.
Ten Minutes 1 - 10 - 1
- Next, you will have approximately ten minutes of reasonable mobility and dexterity. Take advantage of this time to perform the tasks that will extend your survival. But do not try to swim any long distances. You are unlikely to survive the experience.
- Even though you will have some dexterity, you may not be able to do complex tasks.
-If possible, reduce heat loss by climbing partly onto your boat. Even if you lack the strength to pull yourself completely clear of the water, any amount of your body removed from the water will proportionately extend your survival time.
One Hour 1 - 10 - 1
- Finally, you will have one hour of useful consciousness.
- After ten minutes you will probably not have the dexterity or strength to carry out any further tasks. If you have not been able to self-rescue in this time, adopt a heat lessening posture to reduce your cooling rate.
- If you attempt to swim, you will not be able to do so efficiently—and the movement will cool you down more rapidly.
To swim or not to swim?
Swimming is an option but leads to accelerated heat loss (30% faster) and exhaustion.
Strong swimmers have died before swimming 100 yards in cold water.
In water under 40°F, victims have died before swimming 100 feet.
Cramps develop quicker.
|
