What does H.E.L.P. stand for in boating safety?

H.E.L.P. stands for Heat Escape Lessening Posture, which is a crucial technique for individuals who find themselves in cold water. This posture helps to conserve body heat and reduce the risk of hypothermia. By bringing the knees up to the chest, wrapping the arms around the legs, and keeping the head above water, a person can minimize heat loss from the core of the body. This position helps to retain warmth as it covers large blood vessels which could lose heat quickly.

The other options, though they might suggest important safety practices, do not accurately represent what H.E.L.P. stands for in the context of boating safety. Understanding H.E.L.P. and how to apply it can significantly improve survival chances in cold water situations, emphasizing the importance of this knowledge for all boaters.