Re: [Paddlewise] Cold Water Gasp

What kayaking conditions would produce cold water gasp response? My
experience with cold water gasp is outside of kayaking. I also practice
rolling in conditions with water temperatures in the 38-42 degree range and
wear appropriate immersion clothing. I have performed rolls without a hood
in cold water and this has not produced a gasp response; I require something
more akin to the "polar bear club". For me, rolling without a hood in cold
water only tests my ability to roll under those conditions. The problem
remains that someone attempting the "polar bear club" method exposes
themselves to the dangers associated with cold shock. But more importantly,
the person most at risk from cold shock is ignorant of the dangers, dressed
inappropriately for the conditions and has never tested their individual
response. Short of joining the "polar bear club", another approach is to be
informed of the risk and dress appropriately for sudden cold water
immersion.

Craig


----- Original Message -----
From: "cholst" <cholst_at_bitstream.net>
To: <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net>
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2001 4:39 PM
Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Cold Water Gasp
snip

> Basically, practicing a few rolls and rescues in cold water without a
hood,
> at least enough to get you used to the feeling -- and your limitations.
>The
> more used to it you are, the less likely you are to panic, bail out, or
miss
> a roll. I believe in practicing in all conditions I'm likely to paddle in.
> On Lake Superior, where you can have very hot days on very cold water, it
is
> not always practical to wear a hood or heavy insulation when paddling. You
> should not practice alone, however, or far from shore, or wearing a
T-shirt
> and shorts! On Memorial day weekend, when the water temperature was about
> 38-42 degrees, I didn't roll till we were back in the harbor at Little
Sand
> Bay.
snip


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