DON'T BE FOOLED, HYPOTHERMIA CAN BE DANGEROUS IN SPRING

PIEDMONT -- Hypothermia can be a danger in spring months, too.

"After months of watching the thermometer fall, fishermen and water enthusiasts are often teased in March and April with summer-like rising air temperatures," says Joe A. Corbin. "But, water temperatures are still quite cool in this area."

Corbin, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Clearwater Lake near Piedmont, says Mother Nature's deception can be deadly if you happen to accidentally fall in the water.

"Hypothermia is the modern term for a drop in a person's body temperature," adds Corbin. "One's temperature need only drop a few degrees to cause unconsciousness, and, eventually, death."

A fall into cold water can take your breath away and cause the muscle to cramp, added Corbin. "That makes it difficult for you to save yourself even if your are near a boat or the shore."

Corbin offers these safety tips:

Wear a life jacket. It is the best defense against drowning anytime, and especially when you're cold and not able to react well to danger.

Dress appropriately. Wear warm clothes and keep them on in the water. Even wet clothes help insulate you against the cold water. With a life jacket, you will still float. The life jacket will also help keep you arm.

Stay with your boat. Climb back into, or on top of the boat to get out of the cold water. If you can't get into the boat, hang onto it, and signal for help.

Always go with a friend, preferable one who can swim.

Follow a float plan. Always let someone know where you area going and when you will return so help will be summoned if you don't return on time.

"Your actions can prevent a spring outing at the lake or river from turning into a tragedy," said Corbin. "Be alert to the danger of hypothermia and think safely."