What is hypothermia and why is it relevant to divers?

Hypothermia is defined as a medical condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. For divers, this is particularly relevant because they are often exposed to cold water environments, which can significantly increase the risk of hypothermia. As water conducts heat away from the body approximately 25 times faster than air, divers can begin to experience symptoms of hypothermia even in relatively mild temperatures if they are submerged for extended periods without adequate thermal protection, such as wetsuits or drysuits.

Understanding the risk of hypothermia is crucial for divers because it can impair judgment, motor skills, and overall physical condition, increasing the risk of accidents or injury while diving. Divers experiencing hypothermia may struggle to swim or perform essential safety procedures, making it mandatory for them to recognize the signs and take preventive measures. Therefore, recognizing hypothermia as a condition caused by prolonged exposure to cold water directly impacts divers' safety and decision-making underwater.