Shivering and the sensation of cold can begin when the body temperature lowers to approximately 96.5. Amnesia can begin to set in at approximately 94, unconsciousness at 86 and death at approximately 79 degrees. What To Do In The Water Cold water robs the body's heat 32 times faster than cold air. If you should fall into the water, all efforts should be given to getting out of the water by the fastest means possible. Persons boating in the cold water months should be thoroughly skilled in rescue and self-rescue techniques.
Most accidents involve small boats which with practice, can be righted and re-entered.
Most boats, even filled with water, will support the weight of its occupants. If the boat has capsized and cannot be made right, climb on top of it. Physical exercise such as swimming causes the body to lose heat at a much faster rate than remaining still in the water. Blood is pumped to the extremities and quickly cooled. Few people can swim a mile in fifty degree water.