How to keep warm during surface interval?

Question

Hi, fellow divers! The temp is dropping here in Indiana... although I'm so far staying warm UW in a 7mm wetsuit, what concerns me is what to do when I get out of the water between dives? I know, it's sort of a silly question but since getting wet when it's 45º or less outside hasn't been part of my life, I don't know how to handle it.

Thanks, and... dive on!!

Answer 1

Change out of the wetsuit and if you can afford another one you will stay warmer longer on the second dive.

Answer 2

If you can't jump into a car or sheltered area, do what we do. Thermos' of hot water. The occasional dump down the neck works wonders. Ya, I know, I'm not a big fan of milling around a hole in the ice for an hour either, but getting out of a wet suit, toweling off, then trying to get that now frozen solid suit back on an hour later, appeals even less.

Answer 3

Wrap yourself in a (dry) towel or any clothing you can get your hands on, and get a hot drink and some food, eg biscuits. This is particularly important during night dives, as you would agree, where heat loss is even greater than the day and hypothermia is more of a danger. If you are diving off a boat (live-aboard or day boat) the boat would probably have food and drink, or you might want to bring your own to be safe, or if you're taking the plunge from the shore or a rubber boat.

Edit: In response to your additional details - it'd be ideal if whoever's on shore helps you out of your wetsuit and bundles you into a towel ASAP. Most importantly keep dry, as wet skin loses heat a lot faster. You become a human Popsicle if you stay in your suit for too long.

Answer 4

I take it you don't want to struggle out your wetsuit... so two ways to keep warm, one get a nice drysuit (lol) the other, cheaper way, is get a dive parka that you don't mind getting wet.  The biggest factor in being cold between dives is the wind, so I used to use a fleece lined parka that kept the wind off the neoprene and stayed toasty

Answer 5

Been there, done that.  Get a boat jacket that is fleece inside.  I recommend if you are out of the water long to wear a skin under your wetsuit so it peels on and off easily and peal off the top and put on something warm that will trap body heat.  Also cover your head with a beanie or any dry stocking cap.  Have you considered a dry suit?