Cold Water Shock, Hypothermia Survival 
This Powerpoint based lecture program was originally developed for young adults considering entering an EMT program or who are part of an Explorer Post, hunting or youth group involved in outdoor activities.
There is an increasing amount of information regarding the significant threat posed by sudden cold water immersion and lack of preparedness. Death can occur in a matter of minutes. Many former deaths classified as hypothermia did not recognize the symptoms that come from cold water shock. This takes place by sudden, unexpected immersion in water that may be as warm as 60 degrees. It is much faster than the classic longer term lowering of body core temperature known as hypothermia. In this program we also review the protocols important to survivability of a hypothermia victim.
The best prevention is the provision of appropriate clothing for the time of year and temperature of the water (not the air temperature). These include but are not limited to dry suits, dry tops, neoprene gloves, booties and headgear. Life jackets with additional buoyancy as well as rated for whitewater use also can increase survivability.
This program is applicable to outfitters or other outdoor search-and-rescue personnel as it covers New Mexico Protocols and those of JAMA and the State of Alaska.
This program is non-accredited.
Course Description
Topics include:
- Cold Water Shock and Prevention
- Cold water near drowning
- Cold water submersion
- Forces in thermal regulation in cold
- Your body's reaction to a cold challenge
- The cold response-assessment and treatment
- Mild hypothermia-assessment and treatment
- Severe hypothermia-assessment and treatment
- Severe hypothermia current concerns
- Upgrades to protocol
Handouts include:
- Pre-test
- Chart of body core temperatures and symptoms
- Action protocols
Class Request
If you'd like to provide this program to your staff, contact New Mexico State Parks
Please send the following information:
1. Name of company
2. Street address
3. Contact person
4. Phone number, e-mail address
5. Date and alternate date
6. Presentation times
7. Number of employees and staff
The subject line of your e-mail should say "Cold Water Shock, Hypothermia and Cold Water Survival."