What functional decline characterizes the Cold Incapacitation phase (Approx. 3–30 Minutes)?
Answer
Loss of dexterity and muscle strength for coordinated tasks
The Cold Incapacitation phase, setting in after the initial three minutes of shock, is defined by the functional shutdown of the extremities as the body prioritizes core organ protection by restricting blood flow to the limbs. This results in a severe loss of dexterity and muscle strength. Consequently, essential coordinated movements required for self-rescue, such as swimming effectively, securely gripping a rope, climbing a ladder, or operating rescue equipment, become impossible. Although core cooling has not yet reached dangerous hypothermic levels, this physical impairment renders active self-rescue efforts futile during this 3 to 30 minute window.
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