As air temperatures around the area get warmer more and more recreational boaters are taking to the water. The Coast Guard cautions boaters not to be fooled by the warmer air temperatures; the water is still cold, very cold.
Every year the Coast Guard responds to cold water accidents resulting in the untimely deaths of unsuspecting boaters.
The sudden immersion in cold water can result in hypothermia and death.
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature falls below its normal level of 98.6°F to 95°F or cooler.
Hypothermia is dangerous because it affects the body’s core – the brain, heart, lungs, and other vital organs. Even a mild case of hypothermia affects your physical and mental abilities, and increases the risk of accidents. Severe hypothermia causes loss of consciousness and may result in death. Cold water is especially dangerous because loss of body heat occurs 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air.
The Coast Guard strongly urges the public to wear life jackets anytime while out on the water and to check weather conditions before heading out. Having proper survival gear while underway and filing a float plan with a friend or family member is strongly recommended.
Click here for an important boating safety message.
For more information about safe boating, please visit: http://www.uscgboating.org/
