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Hypothermia
Hypothermia = The condition of having an abnormally
low body temperature.
Hypothermia can arise due to exposure to
severe cold conditions but our special interest in the subject is as the result
of falling into the water. It is uncommon for members to find
themselves in the water but should it happen it is important that
members know how to react particularly, when it is very cold. The River Medway can become dangerously cold after
October and remain so until after April. The Club is currently arranging a
safety course specifically to deal with hypothermia. Until this is in place it
would be prudent, even now that the weather is becoming warmer, for all members
to acquaint themselves with the actions to take should they find themselves in
the water in such conditions. Before you go out, think, "how you will get
out." In the absence of the Club having any
proposals regarding the issue, a very good website exists specifically for
rowers and it is recommended that all members familiarise themselves with its
content so that they may be prepared for an emergency . Please review
www.leoblockley.org.uk with
particular reference to pages on:-
Cold Water Survival and Hypothermia.
Also read the FAQ's and the Support Us pages. It
could save a life.
www.leoblockley.org.uk
The site has many useful documents that can be
downloaded and key
points extracted from the above website are included
in the panel below.
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Hypothermia - Key
Points
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Hypothermia is not just a winter thing
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You need a safety plan before you go out
– and a rescue plan to make sure you get back.
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Be vigilant. Hypothermia can creep up on
you.
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Keep warm in air by keeping active.
Keep warm in water by keeping still.
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If your crew can’t do their sums they
may be cold, not stupid.
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In cold water we are all poor swimmers.
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You get -
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Hypothermia? Hospital! Meanwhile:
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Keep Still
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Keep Horizontal
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Keep Sheltered
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Keep Wrapped
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In hypothermia, let the hospital do the
heating.
Cold Water Survival
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Stay out of cold water
Hold on... to something
Pull out... onto something
Stay still... don’t swim
Keep your face... out of the water
Turn your back... to the waves
Cold water cramps your style.
You can’t swim when you’re cold and stiff.
You can’t grip with numb hands.
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