Hypothermia - Mustang Survival ELITE Mode D'emploi

o If your PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it.
Store it in a warm, dry, well ventilated area.
Do not dry your PFD with direct heat.
o

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:
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 Type V 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 PFD. even if you become incapacitated due to
hypothermia, your 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.
exhaustion or
Unconsciousness
Under 15 min.
15–30 min.
30–60 min.
1–2 hrs.
2–7 hrs.
2–12 hrs.
Indefinite
expected Time of
Survival
Under 15–45 min.
30–90 min.
1–3 hrs
1–6 hrs.
2–40 hrs.
3 hrs. to Indefinite
Indefinite
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