Build a Cold-Water Immersion Plan
Life-jacket, reboarding, signaling, and float-plan preparation for boating where sudden immersion is possible.
Dress For The Water, Not Only The Air
The Coast Guard warns that sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping, uncontrolled breathing, and other physical responses that contribute to drowning. A warm afternoon does not make cold water harmless.
Select exposure protection for the water temperature, activity, and expected rescue time. The precise garment depends on the trip; follow its manufacturer guidance and seek qualified local instruction for cold-water operations.
Wear A Properly Fitted Life Jacket
A life jacket must already be on to help during an unexpected fall. Choose a Coast Guard-approved device appropriate to the activity and user, fit it securely, and inspect it before departure.
Make sure layers and rain gear do not prevent correct fastening or movement. Try the complete setup in controlled conditions under appropriate supervision.
Plan Reboarding And Signaling
Identify how a person in the water can get back aboard without relying on upper-body strength alone. Test ladders and recovery equipment safely with the actual vessel and crew.
Keep a VHF, beacon, whistle, light, or other appropriate signaling device reachable after immersion. A phone stored inside the boat may not be available to the person in the water.
Shorten The Time To Rescue
Share a detailed float plan with a reliable person, remain with the craft when appropriate, and keep the route within the crew's training and equipment. Agree on the overdue response before leaving.
If someone is recovered, follow current first-aid and emergency-service guidance. This planning article does not replace cold-water rescue training or medical advice.