What is cold water shock? Warnings after 12 die during heatwave

The Independent supports on-the-ground reporting across major issues including reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, emphasizing separating facts from messaging. It highlights investigations into political funding and documentary work focused on American women fighting for reproductive rights, and states that reporting is accessible without paywalls. In the UK, temperatures remain above average after a record hot spell that included deaths in open water, with a yellow heat health alert still active for eastern and south east England and London until 8pm Saturday. The UK Health Security Agency warns that water-related incidents may rise during this period due to cold water shock and drowning risk. Cold water shock is a natural immediate reaction to sudden cold-water immersion, causing gasping, panic, loss of swimming ability, and spikes in heart rate and blood pressure that can contribute to drowning or heart attack even in fit people.

"Temperatures remain above average for much of the UK after a record-breaking spell of hot weather saw 12 people die in open water and a yellow heat health alert remains in force. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) alert for eastern and South East England and London runs until 8pm on Saturday. Water-related incidents could increase during this time, with the agency warning of cold water shock and drowning."

"What is cold water shock? Cold water shock is the body's natural physical reaction to sudden immersion in cold water. The response is immediate and can lead to drowning, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said. Anyone who suddenly enters cold water is at risk, and they may accidentally fall in or jump in, the NFCC added. Cold water shock can affect anyone regardless of swimming ability."

"What happens when you have cold water shock? It causes gasping, panic and loss of swimming ability, all of which can lead to drowning, the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF) said. It also causes a spike in heart rate and blood pressure, which can result in a heart attack, even if the person is fit a"

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