Читать книгу Carolina Whitewater. A Paddler's Guide to the Western Carolinas онлайн

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Swimming in cold water increases the flow of water past the body, pumping heat out of the clothing so that heat production is outpaced by heat loss. If there is no prospect of getting out of the water immediately, survival time will be longer if one does not swim but relies on a life jacket for flotation. Better still, assume the HELP position (Heat Escape Lessening Position) in which the knees are tucked close to the chest. This allows one to retain body heat longer. It is, therefore, imperative that a life jacket with adequate flotation be worn. Swim only if there is danger downstream.

In recent years a number of new materials have been developed that make cold-weather paddling more comfortable and certainly safer. Materials such as polypropylene, pile, and fleece tend to wick wetness away from the body and dry very quickly. Wool has the ability to provide warmth when wet, but the newer materials do it better. Worn under a paddling jacket and pants, they can be very effective. For the decked boater who is more likely to get wet, a wet or dry suit is highly recommended. Also, a polypro or wool cap can help tremendously because a great deal of body heat is lost through an unprotected head or neck.