Defense against hypothermia is to avoid exposure to cold. Do this by staying dry and avoiding the wind. Put on rain gear before you get wet. Avoid moving as much as possible. If several persons are in the water, huddle together so you can conserve heat and stay alive.
Care involves getting the victim out of the wet clothes.
Warm the victim gradually by wrapping them in blankets or putting on dry clothing and moving into a warm environment. If the victim is alert, give warm liquids to drink that do not contain alcohol or caffeine. DO NOT warm the victim too quickly, by immersing in warm water, for instance as this can cause dangerous heart rhythms. Transport the victim to a medical facility. All rights reserved.