Which statement correctly describes the proper response to signs of hypothermia?

• A. Apply direct heat to the skin
• B. Move to shade and drink water
• C. Ignore and continue paddling
• D. Remove wet clothes, insulate, provide warmth

Answer: (D)

When someone shows signs of hypothermia, the priority is to stop further heat loss and begin safe warming. Wet clothing pulls heat away from the body, so removing it and replacing it with dry layers helps the person regain warmth. Insulating with dry clothes, a dry towel, a sleeping bag, or blankets traps the person’s heat and reduces ongoing cooling. Providing warmth means adding a source of heat that’s gradual and controllable—dry clothing, blankets, and, if the person is alert and able to swallow, a warm nonalcoholic drink and keeping the head and core covered to minimize heat loss.

Avoid applying direct heat to the skin (such as hot water bottles or heating pads) or rubbing the skin, as this can cause tissue damage or shock. Don’t ignore the signs or keep paddling, since that allows cooling to continue. This approach directly tackles the spread of cold through wet clothing and creates a safer, controlled rewarming path.