Ice Rescue Demonstration

During cold weather, many people travel outdoors to go ice fishing. However, some people are over-enthusiastic in their pursuit and end up falling through the ice. Therefore, it’s important to wait to trek over the ice until you’re sure it’s safe.

One 65-year-old fisherman recently died who was ice fishing in Suamico, Wisconsin for this reason. While emergency rescuers performed CPR, the man died the next day. He was unresponsive when rescuers reached him.

When conditions are cold, it can negatively affect CPR rescue efforts due to lower temperatures. This factor can lead to a chain of events that make it difficult to revive a victim successfully.

The relationship between cold temperatures, ice, and sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) survival involves several interconnected physiological and logistical challenges.

The Cold’s Impact on Physiology

Exposure to cold temperatures causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure and making the heart work harder to pump blood throughout the body.

Therefore, this additional strain can trigger a cardiac event and complicate resuscitation efforts. When the body temperature drops significantly, the heart muscle becomes more irritable and prone to dangerous arrhythmias, further reducing the chances of successful resuscitation.

Logistical Challenges in Cold Conditions

Emergency response times often increase during icy conditions as ambulances must drive over hazardous roads more carefully. Additionally, first responders may face difficulties accessing patients in snow or ice-covered areas, leading to delayed treatment. Every minute of a delay reduces survival chances by approximately 10 percent.

Equipment Complications

Medical equipment can malfunction in extreme cold. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) may experience battery issues, and electrode pads may not adhere properly to cold or wet skin. These technical complications can impede life-saving interventions during critical moments.

Bystander Response

People are often less likely to perform immediate CPR in cold conditions due to several factors. Thick winter clothing can make it difficult to assess the patient and perform proper chest compressions. Bystanders may also hesitate to remove necessary clothing layers due to concerns about hypothermia, leading to less effective CPR administration.

The Hypothermia Factor

While therapeutic hypothermia can be beneficial in controlled medical settings after resuscitation, uncontrolled exposure to cold during an SCA event typically complicates recovery. The body must maintain a certain temperature for optimal organ function and medication effectiveness during resuscitation efforts.

What Ice Rescuers Recommend

Ice rescuers recommend not to walk on ice unless it’s at least 4 inches thick – the thickness suggested for holding one person’s body weight . This ice rescue video gives you more information about ice safety.

Why Specialized On-Site CPR Training is Important

Troy Bowman, CFO of In-Pulse CPR, emphasizes the importance of specialized cold-weather emergency training. He says, “On-site CPR training programs are essential for creating more lifesavers in our communities.”

Sign Up for On-Site CPR Training Now

That’s why In-Pulse CPR is committed to providing comprehensive CPR education across Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Florida. When every minute counts, having someone nearby who knows CPR and understands cold-weather complications can mean the difference between life and death.

Have you signed up for CPR training at an on-site location near you? Make it  your New Year’s resolution to make a difference in others’ lives. Learn more about CPR training now.