Heat escape lessening position

Heat Escape Lessening Position (HELP) is a survival technique used by individuals to reduce heat loss in cold water environments. It is particularly relevant in situations where a person is awaiting rescue and needs to conserve body heat to prevent hypothermia. The HELP technique is an essential survival skill for swimmers, boaters, and anyone involved in water-based activities in cold conditions.

Overview

The Heat Escape Lessening Position involves adopting a specific posture in the water to minimize the body's surface area exposed to the cold. By reducing the amount of heat lost to the surrounding water, an individual can significantly increase their chances of survival and reduce the risk of hypothermia. The position is most effective when wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), as it helps to keep the individual afloat with minimal effort.

Technique

To assume the HELP, an individual should:

1. Bring knees up to the chest.
2. Wrap arms around the shins or the knees.
3. Keep head out of the water as much as possible to conserve heat.

This position minimizes the exposed surface area and protects the major body heat loss areas such as the groin, chest, and abdomen. When in a group, individuals can huddle together in a circle facing each other, with arms around each other's shoulders or backs, to further conserve heat. This group formation is known as the huddle position.

Benefits

The HELP technique offers several benefits:

• Reduces heat loss more effectively than treading water or swimming, which can increase heat loss due to water movement around the body.
• Conserves energy, allowing the individual to survive longer while awaiting rescue.
• Can be used in conjunction with a life jacket, enhancing buoyancy and reducing the effort needed to stay afloat.

Limitations

While the HELP is effective in conserving heat, it has limitations:

• Its effectiveness is reduced in very cold water or if the individual is not wearing a PFD.
• It requires physical ability to maintain the position, which might be challenging for injured or exhausted individuals.
• In rough water conditions, maintaining the HELP position can be difficult.

Training and Awareness

Awareness and practice of the HELP technique are crucial for anyone engaging in activities in cold water environments. Many organizations, including the Coast Guard and outdoor adventure groups, include HELP and other survival techniques in their safety training programs.

Conclusion

The Heat Escape Lessening Position is a vital survival skill that can significantly increase an individual's chances of surviving in cold water. By understanding and practicing this technique, individuals can better prepare themselves for emergency situations in cold environments.