COLD WATER SAFETY Falling into icy water can be deadly. Wearing your life jacket could be the single most important factor in surviving cold water immersion.
ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET!
Even if you’re a “strong swimmer”. Even if you’re with others. Even if you think you’re invincible. Even if you are staying close to
shore. Just wear the life jacket. Over 30 percent of boating fatalities in Minnesota happen in cold water with a victim not wearing a life jacket. Set a good example for those around you and think of the safety of everyone involved in your rescue/recovery should you inadvertently enter the water. There is no excuse not to wear a life jacket when boating in cold and/or rapidly moving water. Did you know some life jackets can lose their buoyancy over time? Foam life jackets typically have a lifespan of about ten years. Check for signs of wear and tear and test buoyancy before your trip. Most area outfitters sell and rent life jackets if you’re in need of a replacement.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU CAPSIZE OR GO OVERBOARD
1-10-1 PRINCIPLE: IF WEARING A LIFE JACKET, THE 1-10-1 PRINCIPLE MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE! Stay with the boat. Try to re-board. If you can’t, do not attempt to swim unless to a nearby boat or floating object.
1 MINUTE
• Get breathing under control 10 MINUTES OF MEANINGFUL MOVEMENT • Assess the situation and make a plan
• Perform most important functions first, such as locating other party members
• Self-rescue if possible • Signal or call for help 1 HOUR (OR MORE) OF USEFUL CONSCIOUSNESS
See full Minnesota DNR Cold Water brochure >
• Focus on slowing heat loss by assuming the heat escape lessening position (H.E.L.P.): cross ankles, cross arms over chest, keep hands high on the shoulders or neck, draw knees to chest, lean back and try to relax. If more than one person is in the water, huddle together.
AUTUMN GUIDE
Source: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/paddling_safety.html
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