Summer Safety: What is Cold Water Shock?

  • Central
Cold water shock can affect your ability to swim and self-rescue. Credit: West Midlands Ambulance Service

Cold water shock is responsible for many of the drownings which occur in the UK every year, according to Royal Life Saving Society.

Outdoor bodies of water can vary considerably in size, but they are often deep and the water temperature is often extremely cold.

The message from The Royal Lifesaving Society is "don't let a hot summer's day be the reason you risk your life."

Signs of Cold Water Shock:

  • Initial immersion responses – Cold shock response includes gasping, hyperventilation, restriction of blood flows and feelings of panic (0-3mins)

  • Short term responses – Loss of performance due to a decrease in muscle strength and muscle fatigue (3–30mins)

  • Long term responses – The core body temperature begins to drop resulting in hypothermia (30mins+)

West Midlands Ambulance Service are advising people to stay out of open water to avoid the dangers of cold water shock.