A safety reminder about hypothermia is relevant to "training concepts" because winter workouts are recommended in order to maintain or improve your paddling fitness. As the seasons change, so do our safety priorities. During the summer months we are concerned about hyperthermia and dehydration. In winter, we are exposed to the cold and vulnerable to the onset of hypothermia. Hypothermia will affect your performance and diminish the enjoyment of paddling. But more importantly, it is a health safety issue with serious consequences. Observation and awareness may help to save yourself or a friend. A little preparation and planning can make cold weather paddling more fun, more comfortable, and a lot safer.

Concept IX: Hypothermia
Here are some considerations with respect to hypothermia. Your responsibility goes beyond your own safety and extends to the boating community. You can be a liability or an asset. If you become hypothermic, you become our responsibility. If your paddling partner becomes hypothermic, they become your responsibility. Be ready to respond.

I can think of a number of scenarios that the paddler may have to confront that involve unplanned exposure to cold water and air:

• capsize with or without rescue
• unexpected onset of rain and wind
• a hard training paddle causing fatigue and perspiration
• early sunset
• failure to have warm dry clothes to change into after a workout

Physiology: Major heat loss occurs through conduction and evaporation. This means get out of the water, get dry, and/or cover up immediately. Most heat loss occurs from:

• head (50-60%)
• neck
• groin
• armpits/chest sides

Be aware that rapid warming of the extremities may cause cold blood to circulate to the body's interior, causing rapid cooling and risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Warm slowly.