Hypothermia Warning
April 03, 2012; 3:54 PM
OutdoorLife.com
Spring is here and many anglers and boaters are heading back to the lakes and rivers to finally get out onto the water. Even though the weather is warm, most people forget just how cold the water can be. All it takes is an unexpected wave, the tug of a big fish, or a little clumsiness to send you into the frigid water.
But hypothermia isn't a threat to only fishermen. Many hunters and hikers set out on warm spring days, wearing just jeans and a t-shirt. All this cotton, no back up clothes and unpredictable spring weather is a combination to a hypothermia emergency.
So what is hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a medical event that occurs when a person's body core temperature drops below 95 degrees. This can be caused by exposure to water, wind, very cold air or all of the above. A decrease in critical body heat can result in a loss of dexterity, poor mental state, a loss of consciousness and eventually death. A few minutes in cold water makes it very difficult to swim, or even to stay afloat. Also, the sudden shock of hitting cold water can cause a reflexive "gasp" allowing water to enter the lungs, so that drowning can be almost immediate.
Always wear your PFD!
Why is the cold water so bad? Your body can cool down 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air. Be aware that children, the elderly, the ill and the very slender are at more risk of cooling down and becoming hypothermic than someone who is bigger.
Spot the Symptoms of Hypothermia
There are several signs that you can watch for to catch hypothermia while it is still treatable in the field.