Lunch on the Rocks - eating with style
Jerusalem Bay, NSW Australia
Robert McClure

    How quickly the new year moves along. Already we are seeing shorter paddling days and the water is beginning to take on a very noticeable drop in temperature.

    Along with that noticeable drop in temperature, comes the need for awareness of dressing for immersion as well as dressing for the air temperature. This is always a problem in a country where we can have such a range of difference between the two.

    There have been several occurrences recently, that I am aware of, where people have had relatively short duration exposures in the water (as in less than 15 minutes, combined with a light wind chill afterwards) and have had indications of the first stages of hypothermia occurring. Awkwardness, clumsiness, shivering, keeping to themselves - all examples of someone who is beginning to be too cold.

    It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and to be sure to dress appropriately; eat and drink properly and monitor how you feel during your paddle. Do not wait until you ar shivering to do something - be proactive and stay warm all the time.

    Remember that even though you may not feel cold - your body, especially when wet, can be a big evaporative cooler. Not a great way to have fun by ending up incapacitated by the end of the day!!

    In our next edition we will be doing an article on hypothermia and how it relates to the paddler. So you will be able to have a read, and go do a little personal research on the subject and learn how you can stay performing at your best and at your safest on the water.

    So, have a happy autumn and I look forward to seeing you all soon - on the water rather than in, that is!

Cheers