Which survival phase follows the Cold Shock phase (0–3 Minutes)?
Answer
Cold Incapacitation (Approx. 3–30 Minutes)
The sequence of cold water immersion follows a predictable, rapid timeline. After the initial Cold Shock phase, which lasts from 0 to 3 minutes and involves respiratory and cardiovascular stress, the next stage is Cold Incapacitation. This phase generally lasts from approximately 3 minutes up to about 30 minutes, depending on water temperature. During Cold Incapacitation, the body restricts blood flow to the limbs to conserve heat for the core. This causes a rapid decline in nerve function, leading to a severe loss of dexterity and muscle strength, making coordinated tasks impossible.
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