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Course Outline

Reducing Heat Loss in Cold Water

To reduce heat loss if you are in cold water, use the H.E.L.P. or huddle position.

Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP): When you are alone, this position protects the body’s three major areas of heat loss (groin, head/neck, and rib cage/armpits). Wearing a PFD allows you to draw your knees to your chest and your arms to your sides.

Person holding up his knees close to the chest (HELP position)

Huddling With Others: Huddling with other people in the water lessens the loss of body heat and is good for morale. Also, rescuers can spot a group more easily than individuals.

Three people in the huddle position
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