As temperatures drop and the boating season winds down, the risks on the water increase significantly. Cold water doesn’t just mean discomfort—it can be life-threatening in minutes. At C-Tow, safety is our top priority, which is why our captains are sent to specialized cold water safety and hypothermia awareness training to ensure they’re prepared for any emergency.

Understanding Cold Water Shock

Many boaters don’t realize that cold water shock can occur in water temperatures below 15°C (59°F)—common in Canadian waters during November. When your body is suddenly immersed in cold water, you experience:

• Gasp reflex: An involuntary gasp that can cause water inhalation if your head is submerged
• Hyperventilation: Rapid, uncontrollable breathing that makes it difficult to hold your breath or swim
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Potentially dangerous for those with heart conditions
• Loss of coordination: Cold water immediately affects your ability to swim or grab safety equipment

This initial shock phase lasts 1-3 minutes and is when most cold water drownings occur—often before hypothermia even sets in.

The Hypothermia Timeline

If you survive the initial cold water shock, hypothermia becomes your next challenge:

• 0-10 minutes: Cold water shock, gasping, hyperventilation
• 10-30 minutes: Loss of meaningful movement in hands and arms, swimming becomes difficult
• 30-60 minutes: Exhaustion, inability to self-rescue
• 1+ hours: Unconsciousness, life-threatening hypothermia

In 10°C (50°F) water—typical for Canadian lakes and coastal waters in November—you may have less than 30 minutes of useful movement.

Critical Safety Tips for November Boating

Before You Leave the Dock

• Wear your life jacket: A PFD keeps you afloat during cold water shock when you can’t control your breathing
• Dress in layers: Wool or synthetic materials retain warmth even when wet; avoid cotton
• File a float plan: Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return
• Check the weather: November weather can change rapidly—use the C-Tow app for real-time marine weather and conditions
• Ensure your C-Tow membership is active: 24/7 assistance is critical when minutes matter

If You Fall In

• Control your breathing: Fight the urge to panic; focus on getting your breathing under control
• Don’t try to swim immediately: Wait 60-90 seconds for the cold shock response to pass
• Assume the HELP position: Heat Escape Lessening Position—pull your knees to your chest and keep your arms tight to your sides
• Stay with your boat: Even a capsized boat provides flotation and is easier for rescuers to spot
• Call for help immediately: Use the C-Tow app’s emergency assistance feature to share your exact location

If Someone Else Falls In

• Don’t jump in after them: You’ll become a second victim
• Throw, don’t go: Use a life ring, rope, or flotation device
• Call C-Tow immediately: Our captains are trained in cold water rescue and have the equipment to safely extract someone from the water
• Once rescued, treat for hypothermia: Remove wet clothing, wrap in blankets, provide warm (not hot) drinks if conscious, and seek medical attention

Why C-Tow Captains Are Your Cold Water Safety Net

Every C-Tow captain undergoes annual cold water safety and hypothermia awareness training. They know how to:

• Safely approach and extract someone from cold water
• Recognize and treat hypothermia symptoms
• Execute rescues in challenging November conditions—high winds, reduced visibility, and rough water
• Coordinate with emergency services when advanced medical care is needed

With over 40 years of experience and the largest towing fleet in Canada, C-Tow captains have seen it all—and they’re prepared for it all.

Your Safety is Our Mission

November boating can be beautiful and peaceful, but it demands respect and preparation. Whether you’re making one last trip before winterization or you’re a year-round boater, having C-Tow membership means you’re never alone on the water.

Not a member yet? Join Canada’s most trusted marine assistance service today and boat with confidence, no matter the season.

Current members: Download or update the C-Tow app for instant access to emergency assistance, real-time weather, and your membership details—all at your fingertips.