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Accidental Hypothermia

Committee on Pediatric Aspects of Physical Fitness, Recreation, and Sports

Pediatricians may be able to bring the dangers of accidental hypothermia to the attention of their patients at the time of a sports, camp, or college "physical." People who spend time outdoors must learn to recognize hypothermia-producing weather and water; to know that shivering indicates heat loss exceeding available insulation and body heat production; and to understand that loss of good judgment and hand coordination soon follow uncontrollable shivering. They must not go into areas in which, without proper gear, unfavorable weather conditions or dangerous water may develop, and they must understand that most tragedies from cold result from failure to make camp or to return to safety when weather conditions become unfavorable.