Virtual Voyage-Hypothermia Hypothermia Hypothermia can be defined as heat loss greater than your body's heat production. Hypothermia is caused by extended exposure to cold, water and wind, and is most dangerous in a combination of the three. F. A core temperature drop of 2 degrees is considered true hypothermia. Heat can be lost through radiation, evaporation, convection, and conduction. And if you are wet or fall in the water, you may lose body heat 24 times faster.
Most people drown before hypothermia sets in due to the lack of a life jacket.
Mild hypothermia will cause uncontrolled shivering, cool skin and slurred speech with fatigue and uncoordinated movements. If someone is cold and has stopped shivering, or has fallen into the water, then severe hypothermia has set in and this becomes an emergency. Dress warmly, in layers, wear a hat, and try to stay dry. If hypothermia is detected, the goal is to prevent further heat loss, not rewarm the person. Take them below, out of the wind.