Coast Guard Emergency Response Flashcards

What is hypothermia's primary cause in a marine emergency?

Answer: Prolonged exposure to cold water or air

Hypothermia results from prolonged exposure to cold, especially immersion in cold water, lowering core body temperature.

What position should a person adopt in cold water to conserve heat when alone?

Answer: The HELP position

The Heat Escape Lessening Posture (HELP) minimizes heat loss by drawing knees to the chest.

When multiple survivors are in cold water together, which technique conserves heat?

Answer: The huddle position

The huddle position keeps survivors close together to share body heat and stay visible to rescuers.

What is the recommended action if your vessel is taking on water faster than pumps can handle?

Answer: Issue a distress call and prepare to abandon ship

When flooding exceeds pumping capacity, issuing a distress call and preparing to abandon ship is essential.

What does a series of five or more short, rapid blasts on a vessel's horn indicate?

Answer: Danger or doubt signal

Five or more short, rapid blasts is the internationally recognized danger or doubt signal.

What should be done first when treating a bleeding wound in a marine first aid emergency?

Answer: Apply direct pressure to the wound

Direct pressure is the first and most effective step to control most bleeding.

What is the purpose of a float plan before departing on a voyage?

Answer: To inform someone ashore of route and expected return

A float plan tells a responsible person ashore your route and schedule so rescue can begin if you fail to return.