Cold Water Immersion

Cold shock, swim failure, and rescue from icy water

Step by Step

Falling into cold water triggers cold shock: gasping and rapid breathing that can drown a person in the first minute. Fight the instinct to thrash: lean back, keep the airway clear, and stay still, letting the initial gasping pass for about 90 seconds while floating. In heavy clothes, air trapped in them aids floating. Swim only to a nearby exit, since muscle fails quickly in cold. Call for help. After rescue, handle the person gently, shield from wind, remove wet clothing when possible, and insulate from the ground with blankets, covering the head. Call emergency services: rewarming, and monitoring for the afterdrop of body temperature, is a job for medical care. Every person rescued from cold water needs assessment, even if they feel fine.