Last Sunday, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s (PAFBC) mandatory lifejacket requirement went into effect. In place from November 1 through April 30, the requirement applies to all Pennsylvania waters and is aimed at protecting boaters from the special hazards presented by an unexpected plunge into cold water.

According to the PAFBC, nearly 80% of all boating fatalities happen to boaters not wearing a life jacket. The number of fatalities increases during the months of November through April due to the effects of cold water on the body.

The agency explains that when someone is exposed to water below 70 degrees, the body’s first response is usually an involuntary gasp, which can cause them to inhale while under water. If you have the presence of mind as you enter the water, try to cover your mouth and nose with your hands to reduce the chance of inhaling water.

Even if a victim makes it back to the surface, his or her ability to swim is usually hampered by shortness of breath or hyperventilation. Should this happen and you are unable to exit the water, the PAFBC advises getting into a position known as the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP), in which one brings the knees to the chest and hugs them with their arms.

Visit fishandboat.com/safety.htm to see additional cold-water-survival safety tips.