SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-cold-shock-gasp

What is the first danger when you suddenly fall into cold water?

Cold shock: a huge gasp, then fast, out-of-control breathing.

  1. Hypothermia within a few seconds
  2. Cold shock, a sudden gasp and rapid breathing ✔
  3. Frostbite on your fingers

Why: Cold shock causes a big involuntary gasp followed by hyperventilation. If your head is underwater during that gasp, you can inhale water. A life jacket keeps your head up while breathing settles.

Huh, didn't know that: In one study in 41 degree F water, average breath-hold time dropped from 45 seconds to 9.5 seconds.

The dad joke
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Sources

  1. USCG, A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
  2. National Center for Cold Water Safety https://www.coldwatersafety.org/cold-shock

Test yourself in the game

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