BOATsmart! Base de connaissances du Canada
Module 07 - Emergency Preparedness
Surviving Cold Water
If you find yourself in cold water, do the following to increase your survival time:
Immediate Action
STEP 1
Assess the situation:
- Is everyone wearing a PFD or lifejacket?
- Can you get to shore or safety?
- Are there any boaters who can assist you?
- Are you able to signal or call for help?
STEP 2
If you are within 50 m of shore and are able to swim to safety you should do so.
STEP 3
If you are injured, there is help close by, or you are further than 50 m from shore, you should stay where you are.
STEP 4
If you are alone and close to a floating object, you should climb onto the object to remove yourself from the cold water and save energy. However, you should only do so if you are able to get most of your body out of and above the water.
STEP 5
Immediately signal or call for help if you are able to do so.
