What occurs during Stage 1 of Cold Immersion?

Stage 1 of cold immersion is characterized by the initial physiological responses of the body to sudden exposure to cold water. During this stage, individuals often experience a "cold shock" response. This response is marked by an acute reaction including gasping, hyperventilation, and a surge of adrenaline, which can lead to a sense of panic. The body instinctively reacts to the drastic drop in temperature, triggering immediate and involuntary responses that can cause disorientation or even panic.

This initial shock can prompt individuals to swim hard, which increases the risk of drowning if they are not aware of how their body reacts to cold water. It's an essential stage to understand because recognizing the signs of cold shock can help in making informed decisions about safety in cold environments.

The other stages mentioned in the options relate to more severe responses to cold exposure. Loss of muscle control typically occurs in later stages as the body's temperature drops further. Profound hypothermia may develop over time if exposure continues without warming. Post-immersion collapse can happen after leaving the cold water, usually due to exhaustion or the body's reactions to temperature changes, but these do not pertain to the immediate responses noted in Stage 1.