Hypothermia is deadly. Surprisingly, most Hypothermia deaths occur at temperatures in the 60–70-degree range. It is true that cold and wet conditions can spell disaster for exposure victims. The key temperature is more about the core body temperature rather than how cold it is outside.
The effects and symptoms of Hypothermia vary with weather conditions and length of exposure.
One of the first indicators is uncontrollable shivering. This can lead to muscle spasms and the loss of use of legs and arms. Confusion and denial are also common indicators. As the body temperature begins to fall, pulse and breathing also decrease, and become uneven. If no action is taken at this point, the core body temperature will continue to fall.
Currently, Ice conditions are becoming inconsistent. Melting snow will pool on top of ice and look like the rest of the surface. Soft and slushy areas will also form, this ice is dangerous. Carry rescue throw ropes and anticipate a breakthrough. Evaluate the ice before you travel onto it. Rivers and streams may also flood quickly, and victims may be swept away.
If you find/have a cold-water victim episode,
Get the victim out of the water and onto a safe place.
Replace wet clothing and wrap the victim in a coat/blanket.
Transport to a hospital. 911 if you have cell service.
Manage victims gently and do not allow them to walk unless necessary.
Keep victims awake and make sure they are breathing. If breathing stops, mouth to mouth resuscitation, or CPR may be needed.
Submerged water victims have been revived, without damage, after nearly an hour of being underwater.
Building a fire or getting the victim warm is critical. The head is often where most body heat is lost. Cover the head and neck areas and wrap in what you have. Holding body heat is important.
LEVELS of HYPOTHERMIA
CORE TEMP. SYMPTOMS
99.6 Normal rectal temp
99.8 Normal oral temp.
96.8 Elevated metabolic rate
95 Maximum shivering
93.2 Victim still responsive/conscious
91.4 Severe Hypothermia below this temp.
89.6 Losing consciousness, pupils dilated, shivering stops
86 Muscles become rigid. Low blood pressure and slower breathing.
82.4 Ventricular fibrillation detected. Begin CPR.
80.6 Voluntary movement lost. Pupils are not reactive to light.
78.8 Consciousness is lost. The heart is fibrillating and slowing.
68 Heart stops
64.4 Lowest accidental hypothermia victim to recover
48.2 Lowest artificially cooled hypothermic patient to recover.
These numbers are generalizations. Different people and pets react differently based on age, size, health, etc. The important thing to address is keeping the core body temperature at normal levels.
This is why Hypothermia can occur at warmer temperatures as well. The shock of losing core temperatures quickly will increase hypothermic risk. Since more people recreate when the weather and water temperatures are nicer, more incidents occur. People are often better equipped and outfitted when the weather is colder.
Keep your cool!
Montana Grant
