BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 07 - Emergency Preparedness

The H.E.L.P. and Huddle Positions

The H.E.L.P. Position

If you fall into cold water alone, and are unable to get back in your boat, you should use the Heat Escape Lessening Position (H.E.L.P.) to reduce heat loss from your body, and help delay the effects of hypothermia.

H.E.L.P. is performed as follows:

Step 1:

Cross your arms tightly against your chest.

Step 2:

Draw your knees up towards your arms and chest.

Step 3:

Lean back slightly to keep your head and face out of the water, and to keep afloat more easily.

The Huddle Position

If you and your passengers (guests) find yourselves exposed to cold water and are unable to get out of the water, you should use the Huddle Position to help reduce loss of body heat, and increase your group's survival time.

TO PERFORM THE HUDDLE POSITION

Step 1: Form a circle with your group, and place any children in the middle.

Step 2: Place your arms around each other’s backs and pull together so your chests are close to each other’s sides, keeping children in the centre.

Step 3: Intertwine your legs, and keep any movements to a minimum to conserve energy.