Hypothermia; How Hypothermia Affects Most Adults - Mustang Survival DLX38 Guide D'utilisation

HYPOTHERMIA

Prolonged exposure to cold water causes a condition known as
hypothermia - a substantial loss of body heat, which leads to
exhaustion and unconsciousness. Most drowning victims first
suffer from hypothermia. The following chart shows the effects of
hypothermia: how hypothermia affects most adults.

HOW HYPOTHERMIA AFFECTS MOST ADULTS

Water Temperature
˚C (˚F)
0.3 (32.5)
0.3–4 (32.5–40)
4–10 (40–50)
10–16 (50–60)
16–21 (60–70)
21–27 (70–80)
over 27 (over 80)
PFDs can increase survival time because they allow you to float
without using energy treading water and because of their insulating
properties. Naturally, the warmer the water, the less insulation you
will require. When operating in cold waters [below 15.6°C (60°F )]
you should consider using a coat or jacket style PFD or a Thermal
Protective PFD as they cover more of the body than the vest or belt
style PFDs.
Some Points to Remember About Hypothermia Protection:
1. Always wear your Inflatable PFD. Even if you become
Incapacitated due to hypothermia, the Inflatable PFD will keep
you afloat and greatly improve your chances of rescue.
2. Do not attempt to swim unless it is to reach a nearby craft, fellow
survivor, or a floating object on which you can lean or climb.
SwImming increases the rate of body heat loss. In cold water,
drown-proofing methods that require putting your head in the
water are not recommended. Keep your head out of the water.
This will greatly lessen heat loss and increase your survival time.
3. Use the standard H.E.L.P. position when wearing an Inflatable PFD,
drawing the legs up to a seated position, because doing so will
help you conserve body heat (Fig. 24).
24
MUSTANG SURVIVAL/ OWNER'S MANUAL – DLX 38 INFLATABLE PFD
Exhaustion or
Unconsciousness
Under 15 min.
15–30 min.
30–60 min.
1–2 hrs.
2–7 hrs.
2–12 hrs.
Indefinite
Time of Survival
Under 15–45 min.
30–90 min.
1–3 hrs
1–6 hrs.
2–40 hrs.
3 hrs. to Indefinite
Indefinite