BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 06 - Other Water Activities Emergency Preparation

How to Survive in Cold Water

If you find yourself in cold water, you can increase your likelihood of survival by taking the following actions:

STEP 1: Assess the situation:

Is everyone wearing a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket?
Can you get to shore or to a safe location?
Are there any boaters nearby who can assist you?
Are you able to signal or call for help?

STEP 2: If you’re within 50m of shore and are able to swim to safety, you should do so.

STEP 3: If you’re injured, there’s help close by, or you’re further than 50m from shore, you should stay where you are and wait for help.

STEP 4: If you’re alone and close to a floating object, you should climb onto the object to remove yourself from the cold water and to save your energy. However, only do so if you’re able to get most of your body out of and above the water.

STEP 5: Immediately signal or call for help.

Remember, a whistle would be a great tool to have attached to your lifejacket in an overboard emergency! You’ll need to get out of cold water quickly and blasting a whistle will help get you the attention you’ll need!