What is the primary goal during the initial 1 to 3 minute Cold Shock window?
Answer
Airway control
Survival strategy during the brief, violent Cold Shock Response (lasting 1 to 3 minutes) must focus entirely on managing the immediate physiological chaos. Since the gasp reflex can cause a person to inhale water if their mouth and nose are submerged, the absolute first priority is maintaining airway control. This means keeping the mouth and nose clear of the water, usually achieved by focusing solely on floating face-up or treading water minimally until the uncontrolled breathing subsides. Focusing on airway control directly addresses the most immediate threat: drowning from the initial shock.
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