News Flash Home
The original item was published from 4/12/2021 4:44:00 PM to 4/19/2021 12:00:05 AM.

News Flash

Town Police

Posted on: April 13, 2021

[ARCHIVED] Cold Water Safety Awareness Week - April 13, 2021

Cold Water Safety Awareness Week April 13

Today’s Topic: Cold Water Shock. Cold water shock can occur in water below 50 degrees. Roughly 20% of those who fall into cold water die in the first minute of immersion due to shock. Without a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and a dry suit, survival of more than 5 minutes is unlikely.

Know the signs!

  1. Gasping for Breath, Rapid Breathing or Hyperventilating due to the “shock” of sudden immersion.
    1. Uncontrolled rapid breathing can quickly create a drowning emergency if you inhale water.
  2. A sudden spike in heart rate and blood pressure can cause heart failure and stroke for vulnerable people.
  3. Cognitive Impairment Cold shock can cause an immediate panic, fear or stress reaction that then impairs clear thinking and decision making.

Additional Info...
Facebook Twitter Email