Hypothermia

Treatment in the Field
       
As a precaution, do not row in cotton in cold weather, wear wool!  Smartwool      
Hypothermia is defined as a body core temperature less than 35 degrees Celsius.
Decreased consciousness occurs when the core temperature falls to approximately
32 to 30 degrees. Drown proofing and treading water lead to rapid heat loss, avoid if possible.
       
GET OUT OF THE WATER AND GET ON TOP ON YOUR BOAT!
DO NOT SWIM TO SHORE WITHOUT YOUR FLOATATION DEVICE!
       
Carry a WHISTLE with you!
       
Body Signs/Symptoms     
Temp. (rectal)            
       
37.5 C Normal            
       
36 Feel Cold  Seek dry shelter, replace wet clothing with dry, including socks
    gloves, hat, cover neck, insulate whole body including head
35 Shivering  from cold. Exercise but avoid sweating. External warmth (bath)
    ONLY if CORE TEMP. is above 35 C. Warm sweet drinks and
    food (high calorie).   
       
BODY CORE TEMPERATURE BELOW 35 C = HYPOTHERMIA = HOSPITAL
Call 911
 (may appear drunk) NO EXERCISE, HANDLE GENTLY, REST, NO EXTERNAL
34 Clumsy:   Add WARMTH (except to chest, trunk by jacket)
 Irrational:   Warm sweet drinks and calories  
 Confused: Internal warming via warm moist air (exhaled air, steam) or warm moist oxygen (40-42 C at mask). 
       
33 Muscle Stiffness:     Monitor pulse and breathing:    Restrick all activity, lie down with feet slightly raised.   
               
32 Shivering Stops, Collapse:  TRANSFER TO HOSPITAL – URGENT – CALL 911
       
31 SEMI CONSCIOUS:   Nothing by mouth: Check airway remains open.
30 UNCONSCIOUS     
29 SLOW PULSE AND BREATHING: Slow mouth to mouth breathing, at victim’s own rate.
28 CARDIAC ARREST:   Check airway:  CPR w/ mouth to mouth breathing:  Aim for CPR rates of 12-15 breaths/min. Continue for as
     long as you can or until paramedics arrive.