BOATsmart! Base de connaissances du Canada
Module 07 - Emergency Preparedness
Rescue Procedure
STEP 1
Remove the person from the source of cold exposure (you should use the overboard rescue techniques, previously described in order, to remove the person from the water).
STEP 2
Dry the victim from head to toe and dress with layers of clothing. Provide dry shelter below deck if possible.
STEP 3
Attempt to slowly increase the victim’s core body temperature by one or a combination of the following actions:
- Cover the victim's head and neck
- Wrap the victim in dry blankets or towels
- Cover the victim with an insulating device (such as a reflective heat blanket) and moisture barrier
Remember:
- If the victim asks for a warm liquid, you may provide it to them–however, you should NEVER give the victim alcohol or hot stimulants
- Do not rub and/or massage the victim’s body or extremities in an attempt to warm them up–doing this may damage nerve endings at the skin and encourage cold blood from the extremities to move to the core of the body
- You can use you own body to transfer heat to the victim
- You should always carry a safety kit including equipment suitable for cold water and cold weather emergencies
