... This is safe boating week from may 18-24...
Today's topic is hypothermia. It is a condition in which body core
temperature drops below the required temperature for normal
metabolism and body functions... which is defined as 95f. If exposed
to cold the internal mechanisms are unable to replenish the heat
that is being lost... and a drop in core temperature occurs. As body
temperature decreases... characteristic symptoms occur such as
shivering and mental confusion. Heat is lost more quickly in water
than on land. Water temperatures that would be quite reasonable as
outdoor air temperatures can lead to hypothermia. A water
temperature of 50f often leads to death in one hour... and water
temperatures hovering at freezing can lead to death in as little as
15 minutes. Water at a seemingly warm temperature of 79f will...
after prolonged exposure... lead to hypothermia.
For more information on hazardous weather and boating safety... visit
the following websites:
Http://www.NWS.NOAA.Gov/os/marine/safeboating
http://www.Safeboatingcampaign.Com
http://www.Safeboatingcouncil.Org/
