Why should thermal protection be used during cold water dives?

Using thermal protection during cold water dives is essential primarily to minimize the risk of hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a significant drop in core body temperature. Cold water can rapidly drain body heat, and without appropriate thermal protection, divers can become susceptible to this dangerous condition, which can impair judgment and motor function, leading to serious safety risks underwater.

Thermal protection, such as wetsuits or drysuits, provides a barrier between the cold water and the diver's body, helping to retain body heat. The insulation properties of these suits slow down the heat loss, ensuring that the diver remains warm and functional throughout the dive. This is crucial for maintaining the diver's physical performance and safety in challenging thermal conditions, ultimately contributing to a safer dive experience.

While thermal protection can have secondary benefits, such as contributing to buoyancy control, its primary and most critical role in cold water diving is to protect the diver from the risks associated with hypothermia.