Circum-rescue collapse (afterdrop)
Also: circum-rescue collapse, afterdrop
Shortly before, during or after rescue from cold water, the circulation can collapse. Rescue hypothermic people horizontally and gently.
Wikipedia calls this phase circum-rescue collapse, with cardiac arrhythmia and unconsciousness. Don't rub, don't let the person walk, but keep them lying down and warm and call emergency services.
Sources and further reading
Research as of 13 Nov 2026. We have marked manufacturer information as such.