Hypothermia is a danger to boaters in cold water or air. This condition occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the core body temperature to drop below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Immersion in cold water can lower body temperature 25 times faster than exposure to cold air, making it a particular concern during boating activities.
Identifying Hypothermia
Recognizing hypothermia signs is important for early intervention, as symptoms can progress from mild to severe. In mild hypothermia, when the body temperature drops by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius (33.8 to 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit), a person might shiver intensely, feel tired, or appear groggy but remain coherent. They may also experience confusion, slurred speech, and some loss of muscle control. The skin might become pale and cool to the touch.
As hypothermia progresses to a moderate stage (a drop of 2 to 4 degrees Celsius), violent shivering may occur, along with increasing confusion and uncoordinated movements. The individual might exhibit drowsiness, impaired judgment, and difficulty breathing. At this point, shivering can decrease or even stop as the body loses its ability to generate heat.
Severe hypothermia, with body temperatures below 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees Fahrenheit), often results in the cessation of shivering, weak or irregular pulse and breathing, and potentially unconsciousness. This stage is life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
Immediate Onboard Actions
When hypothermia is suspected on a boat, the first action involves removing the individual from the cold environment. If they are in the water, extract them as gently and horizontally as possible to prevent further shock or cardiac arrest. Move the person to a warm, dry, and sheltered area on the boat, shielding them from wind and further cold exposure.
Promptly remove all wet clothing, cutting it away if necessary to avoid excessive movement of the victim. Wet garments draw heat away from the body, and their removal is an essential step in preventing further heat loss. After removing wet clothes, replace them with dry layers, blankets, or sleeping bags, ensuring the head is covered to minimize heat escape. Insulate the person from the cold surface of the boat by placing a blanket or other material underneath them.
Safe Warming Strategies
Once initial steps are taken to prevent further heat loss, initiate safe warming strategies using onboard resources. Wrap the victim in multiple layers of dry blankets or sleeping bags, focusing on the core areas like the neck, chest, and groin. Body heat can be transferred through skin-to-skin contact with a rescuer, which can be an effective method, particularly for the trunk of the body. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, offer warm, sweet, non-alcoholic, and non-caffeinated drinks. These beverages can help raise core body temperature and provide energy.
Avoid certain harmful actions. Do not rub or massage the victim’s extremities, as this can force cold blood from the limbs back to the body’s core, causing a sudden and dangerous drop in core temperature, known as “afterdrop,” which can lead to cardiac arrest. Do not apply direct heat sources like hot water bottles, heating pads, or hot baths, as this can cause burns or trigger heart rhythms. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided, as alcohol can hinder the rewarming process by dilating blood vessels, and caffeine can increase the risk of heart rhythm disturbances.
Seeking Advanced Medical Care
Contacting emergency services, such as the Coast Guard or local marine patrol, is important as soon as hypothermia is suspected, especially for moderate to severe cases. Even if the victim appears to improve, professional medical evaluation is needed to assess for potential complications and ensure complete recovery. Continue supportive care until professional medical help arrives.
Monitor the person’s breathing and pulse, and be prepared to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary. If the person is unconscious and appears to have no pulse or breathing, CPR should be initiated immediately and continued until medical aid arrives. When preparing the victim for transport, maintain their warmth and handle them gently to avoid further stress.