Cold Shock and Swimming Failure v2

This is a graphic 3-minute video that shows volunteers trying to swim a short distance in 45F (7C) water. Viewer discretion is advised. They experience cold shock, swimming failure, and incapacitation. In real life, one of them would have drowned within 20 feet. Another barely made it 20 yards before his arms gave out.

When you watch this, remember that it was filmed in a controlled setting, Multiple rescue swimmers were in the water with the volunteers.

One of those swimmers is Mario Vittone. Mario is an international Marine Safety Consultant. He’s extremely determined and fit - and recently retired as a US Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Even so, it took everything he had to reach shore - and he could barely stand when his feet touched bottom.

Video excerpts from the US Coast Guard funded film "Cold Water Boot Camp".

[ALT-etgs]

I just realised i had this exact response when jumping from a boat at Malta thinking the water was a lot warmer than it was.. Basically couldnt control my breathing and it was without any doubt the hardest swim i ever had, trying to get to the ladder on the other side of the boat.. Extremly interesting video..

[stewthebassman]

Thanks Moulton for this, and all the work you do. And thanks for the webinar a couple of nights ago!

[misterfunnybones]

You can't overcome physics. Thermodynamic equilibrium means it's your temperature vs the lake or ocean at 7°C - no contest. I don't think most people realize how quickly coordination is lost in cold water.

[thetruththewayandthelife]

So if you go into cold water relaxed it won't happen?.. That guy who swims in artic water...